I just read the ISU study on the relationship between Iowa schools’ expenditures and size. The study stated small schools spend more money per student than large schools.

This should not surprise anyone, because it’s in the small-school environment where the typical student is given the necessary chances to shine.

I was lucky enough to attend one of the smallest schools in the state, Diagonal. I participated in everything my school district had to offer, from plays and band to basketball and baseball. To give you an idea of how small my school district is, I was one of fourteen in my class.

Now, before all the pro-consolidation legislators say how horrible that is, they need to hear what it is like in a small school from a former small-school student.

Everybody was involved at my school, not just the exceptional athletes or the extremely talented musicians — everybody. If it wasn’t for the near-100 percent participation rate, those activities would not exist. The school doesn’t have “try-outs” for activities; it’s quite the opposite that happens.

The faculty will go out of their way to ask students to join activities.

Therefore, there is a push by the school to give students many more opportunities that they would not receive in a large school.

An environment like this allows students to feel needed by their school. They are given an internal drive to go above and beyond the bare minimum.

Now, does this article take into account the participation rate of extracurricular activities in small schools? Show me some percentages of the student participation and involvement rates at large school districts. Of course large schools spend less, a mere fraction of them are on the basketball team, choir, etc.

For example, take basketball. A large school has one varsity basketball team, as does a small school.

However, a large school has many students not on the team. The school district does not have to pay for long bus rides, uniforms and a coach for those students. Hence, they do not spend as much money for the average, non-participating student.

Do the Legislature and governor understand this?

Small schools are not inefficiently spending government money — they are producing the well-rounded students that Iowa needs.

It’s not just about academics. These students are active in organizations and have excellent leadership qualities.

They will grow up to become the caring community leaders that Iowa was once known for. Small schools prepare students for life.

This is not where the Legislature can afford to cut budgets. Do you honestly want to promote passive student behavior by making them a number? Do not force quality small schools to consolidate and close. You are causing quality Iowa schools to die.

Zach Gunsolley

Senior

Civil Engineering