High School Reform: Smaller Learning Communities (SLC)

More than one researcher over the past decade has concluded that problems exist in 21st century high schools (Cushman, 1999; Duke & Trautvetter, 2001; George & McEwin, 1999; Meier, 1996). These troubles ranged from bullying and violence to low teacher morale and the inability to attract strong principals (Cohen, 2001). Attempts to correct some of these deficiencies were blocked by a number of factors. Noguera (2004) recognized the role that organizational flaws, a disconnected curriculum, and outdated pedagogical methods play in stopping high school reform. The creation of Smaller Learning Community (SLC) was a reform effort that many high schools across the country implemented in an effort to reverse these negative trends. The hope was that a more personalized learning environment would be created and lead to improved student-teacher relationships and higher student achievement levels (Noguera, 2004). By focusing exclusively on high schools in Florida, it was anticipated that this work would enable some conclusions to be drawn based on those schools who have received Federal assistance in this reform effort.