Problematizing the Relationship between Rural Small Schools and Communities: Implications for Youth Lives

Abstract

Small schools are often the hub of many rural communities. In the school space, a multiplicity of social, economic and political relationships are sustained, which enhance the vitality of the community. As such, the relationship between small schools and communities is often presented as a powerful one; however, too often as a harmonious, natural and simple construction. This paper article argues that when education, youth and communities are defined through apparently simple, universal, natural and neutral conceptualizations, these are commonly based on prescribed norms that reflect the dominant values of an hegemonic majority. These homogeneous and universal conceptualizations of education..