This case is based in a small Midwestern school district. It was developed for use in a doctoral level course in Public Engagement and has been revised as a result of student feedback. As developed for this course, the concept of public engagement is not about convincing the public to do what the experts believe should be done. A desired consequence of said engagement is the restoration of the historical compact between the community and its public schools as one foundation for effecting school reform. The case deals with the impact of consolidation on the will of the community to support its schools.
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