School Closures and Mergers: A Business Transaction Impacting Human Capital

Authors

  • Jocelyn M. Bennett-Garraway University of Detroit Mercy
  • Nadine M. Langley University of Detroit Mercy
  • Kylie L. Chaffin University of Detroit Mercy

Keywords:

school closures, school mergers

Abstract

Traditional business models are being used to address school financial concerns, at the potential expense of the development of children. Specifically, at the potential expense of already marginalized populations, with limited academic resources. These students and communities may be losing their voices and power through the application of a business practice that has been found to have a 50% failure rate (Terry & O’Brien, 2001), leading to significant capital loss.  Notably, human capital of underrepresented students is at stake. This article explores the impact closures and mergers have on the school environments, and recommends strategies to address the challenges of school closures and mergers including implications for school counselors.

Author Biographies

Jocelyn M. Bennett-Garraway, University of Detroit Mercy

Assistant Professor & Director, School CounselingDepartment of Counseling and Addiction Studies

Nadine M. Langley, University of Detroit Mercy

M.A., Licensed School Counselor, Limited Licensed Counselor

University of Detroit Mercy Alumni

Kylie L. Chaffin, University of Detroit Mercy

Graduate Student, Community Mental Health

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Published

2016-01-20