Abstracts Political Science

The Formation of Policy Change in Small Communities

by Annie Rowell

The focusing question of this study is "What factors contribute to local policy change?" This study explores the nature of relationships in the political system of Craftsbury, Vermont in light of existing theories of local policy change, and draws conclusions on how the roles of groups, the community, and leadership in the community dictate the course of policy change. This study will specifically look at the development of a policy through which a local vegetable farm, Pete's Greens, will supply school lunch to Craftsbury Schools. The small school has been a subject of controversy in the town, as it is questionable as to whether or not the town residents are willing to support the necessary renovations and curricula adjustments or close the school altogether and consolidate with area school districts. As Craftsbury demographics continue to shift towards an older, retired community, interest in revamping the school system is dwindling. In light of these changes, many who support strengthening the existing school see a locally sourced school lunch system as a promising program to help educate kids about health, support local agriculture, and also market the school in order to draw more students. I examine the varied relationships between related groups, members of the community, and leaders to speak to the source of this forthcoming change in school policy. I will draw conclusions about the prospects for the policy to be presented and expanded in the small Craftsbury community and beyond. The results of this study contribute to political science literature relating to political activity and engagement in rural communities, especially those communities that share characteristics of rural New England culture. This study also has implications for the future of small school districts across the nation, as the number of school districts has drastically declined over the past half century as a result of the push towards consolidation. In this case, the community resists consolidation in order to retain local control and a vibrant town center.