A 1960 study found that one-teacher schools numbered 24,000; were outmoded, poorly financed, and of inferior construction; and had inadequately prepared teachers. In the early 1980s, a study of these schools found that their facilities were updated, most teachers were college trained and state certified, and the students performed well at school and in later grades. However, there were only 837 of them left. During the 1995-96 school year, a survey found that 379 one-teacher public elementary schools were operating in rural, often remote, areas in 28 states. Data on teachers, students, community, class enrollments, buildings, and districts are given, as are perceived strengths and weaknesses of one-teacher schools. These schools were amply staffed with qualified, experienced teachers. The students did well and created few disciplinary problems. Community support was high and teachers respected local values. The buildings were old but in good repair, had adequate facilities, and remained a center for community activities. Students were not exposed to grading traumas, school discipline problems, and overcrowding evident in larger schools. Includes a table showing number of one-teacher schools by state in 1958-59, 1984, 1996, and a map showing distribution of one-teacher schools in 1996. (TD)