When a rural school closes down – a case study of a conflicted process of closure
This article characterizes, based on a descriptive case study, a conflict between local education politicians and a group of actively engaged parents that arose when it was decided to close a rural school. Furthermore, the article discusses the possible causes of the dispute, and aims to contribute to a better understanding of closure processes, the way that they can be managed, and the role therein of pedagogical argument. The results make clear that the main reason for the closure was to save money, and that pedagogical motives played a subordinate role.