Low cost or no cost ideas for programs in smaller rural schools are listed. Areas covered include public relations, special programs and curriculum. Based on the experience of a small school district in Elizabeth, Illinois, these ideas include the school's relationship to students, faculty and the community; extracurricular activities relating to substance abuse, academic competition, and personal adjustment; and development of innovative approaches in math, physical education, social studies, music and vocational education. The effectiveness of boards of education, teachers, parents, administrators, taxpayers, and students can be enhanced if they see themselves engaged in an activity on which they are all on the same side, attempting to accomplish the same goals. (SKW)