By Olivia West
MOUNT AYR, Iowa — Throughout the state there are many sharing agreements between smaller school districts are part of a more broad operational understanding. The main objective being to improve efficiency and reduce costs for each school.
More and more small schools across rural Iowa are sharing resources, staff and programs with other districts.
While low enrollment and limited competition play a roll in lowered classroom attendance and sports participation, merging can expand the opportunities that are available to students. These programs can provide a stronger educational outcome and an increase in athletic participation.
Under Iowa’s new Area of Education (AEA) funding law, small districts are being forced to cut and redirect services and funds towards the rising costs of insurance and salaries. Previously, the AEA could integrate resources to provide professional development, materials, and extra training for teachers. Now, with the funds being so scarce, districts can only offer a fraction of these services.
Sharing resources helps bridge gaps between districts of different sizes and funding levels giving students in smaller, less-resourced districts access to opportunities and services that might otherwise be unavailable.
With the construction of the new career and technical education (CTE) center at Mount Ayr Community Schools, students from all over southwestern Iowa will be coming to Mount Ayr to learn valuable skill development, career exploration and professional training for high-demand careers.