Using a nationwide survey of 95 school districts, this study attempted to assess the patterns and effects of declining enrollment. The survey examined the current effects of declining enrollment on instructional and supervisory programs. Utilizing a random sample of school districts stratified by size of district in 1977, region, and percent of school population change from 1970 to 1977, the author sent questionnaires to school superintendents in districts across the United States. Results indicated definite differences between schools with decreasing and increasing enrollments. Districts with declining enrollment showed less decrease in dropout rates. They also had older teachers, and more early retirement programs and required teachers to be able to teach in more subject areas. The effects of declining enrollment related to instructional issues were increased use of alternative education and computer assisted instruction methods, a shortened materials replacement cycle, and changes in the quality of the program. Staffing, course offerings, courses taught, and facility space allocated were decreased more in academic than in vocational curriculum areas. (Author/JM)