Last year, once again, a group of parents approached me with the same question: would we consider expanding to include a high school? In the past, my answer had always been no. I believed that a small school simply could not offer the breadth of academic and extracurricular opportunities that larger high schools provide.
This time, however, I felt compelled to listen more carefully, not just to what parents were asking, but to why. I spent time reviewing the literature on small schools and their impact on students, particularly at the high school level. I am now convinced that small schools are not a limitation, but a powerful and often overlooked option.
Most parents want their children to be known. They want meaningful relationships with teachers, opportunities for students to develop their individual strengths, and a learning environment where every voice matters. They are seeking academic excellence, yes, but also schools that intentionally nurture leadership, character, and belonging. Across educational research and practice, one question continues to surface: how does school size shape relationships, learning, and long-term outcomes?
BENEFITS OF SMALL SCHOOLS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
In The Benefits of Small Schools (Grauer, 2023), one of the most comprehensive literature reviews of school size, several consistent advantages of small schools emerged. These include safety, the teaching environment, academic performance, a sense of belonging, and curriculum design. Grauer defines small schools as those with fewer than 400 students. These key areas deserve careful consideration by both parents and educational leaders.
SAFETY: AN ETHICAL OBLIGATION
Decades of research link smaller school size with safer learning environments. Small schools consistently report fewer incidents of violence, vandalism, and serious behavioral issues, regardless of location or student demographics. Safety concerns also extend beyond the campus itself. Long, unsupervised bus rides, common in large districts, can be a source of anxiety and conflict for students. Small schools naturally reduce these risks while fostering communities where students feel secure and supported. As educators and parents, prioritizing safety is not optional; it is an ethical responsibility.
TEACHING ENVIRONMENT
Smaller schools also create healthier professional environments for teachers. Teachers are better able to collaborate and respond to students as individuals. This kind of professional culture directly benefits students through more intentional instruction and stronger relationships.
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
Students in small schools consistently demonstrate strong academic outcomes. Studies show higher attendance, greater engagement, improved achievement, and stronger progression toward graduation. These students are also more likely to show indicators of college readiness. These outcomes are not accidental; they are closely tied to sustained student–teacher relationships, clear expectations, and active learning practices.
A SENSE OF BELONGING AND INCLUSIVENESS
“I spent years where I did not have a meaningful conversation with a teacher.” — Sal Khan of Khan Academy Small schools excel at ensuring students are known and heard. Research shows stronger connections among students, teachers, and families, along with higher participation in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities.
Consistent advising and close relationships help students navigate high school with intention and confidence.
CURRICULUM AND LEARNING PATHWAYS
It is often assumed that larger schools offer more choice. Yet Slate and Jones remind us that, “Increasing school size, especially beyond 400 students, does not typically result in a large increase in curricular offerings.” What truly matters is access. In small schools, more students can participate meaningfully across academic and extracurricular activities.
CONCLUSION
As Self Development Academy looks ahead, our plans for a high school are grounded in research, experience, and a proven record of success. Students would have access to multiple diploma pathways, dual enrollment opportunities, career pathways, contributing to original research, and meaningful community service. Thus, we are preparing strong candidates for competitive college programs and scholarships.
With our longstanding record as a high-performing “A” school, one of Arizona’s top-ranked schools, and the No. 1 K–8 school in America (Niche.com, 2026), as we grow, our focus remains on what has always mattered most to us: strong relationships, academic rigor, and meaningful purpose.
To learn more about Self Development Academy and the vision for the high school, contact Self Development Academy at (480) 641-2640.