The Power of Small Things: Transformation from a Rural School in the Axarquía (Málaga)

Abstract

Rural schools represent an essential pillar in many communities, functioning not only as educational institutions but also as central hubs of social and cultural life. In my case, with 17 years of experience in education and currently working at CPR San Hilario de Poitiers, a rural school that includes a Specific Special Education Classroom (AEEE) and operates under the semi-D model (a primary education center that also delivers the first cycle of lower secondary education without being a secondary school), I have witnessed both the strengths and challenges of this educational context. Over the years, I have developed pedagogical practices grounded in individualized attention, emotional support, and networked collaboration with families and the broader community. Our school is a Learning Community, which allows us to implement evidence-based successful educational actions such as dialogic literary gatherings and interactive groups, thereby strengthening community participation and inclusion. We make the most of our multi-grade structure and the close ties with our environment to promote a transformative and person-centered education. This context has enabled more personalized learning, where smaller class sizes make it possible to adapt learning rhythms, foster strong interpersonal bonds, and build trust. Horizontal relationships among teachers, students, and families are consolidated, promoting values such as cooperation and shared educational responsibility. Despite these advantages, rural schools face significant challenges: outdated infrastructure, limited institutional recognition, and bureaucratic obstacles in dealing with educational administrations. These issues can lead to feelings of isolation and a lack of resources. Nevertheless, the human potential, community engagement, and the learner-centered pedagogical model position rural schools as powerful spaces for transformation that deserve greater support and visibility.