Small schools offer many advantages and their numbers are increasing, but current funding practices often do not meet their needs. This digest suggests strategies that can help small public schools, particularly small rural schools, redress funding inequalities and get the resources they need. Three basic strategies for improving resources at small rural schools are discussed. First, small schools can increase operating funds by changing the state funding formula (increasing the basic budget). This strategy is most effective but takes the most time and requires changing many minds while working at a distance. Approaches are outlined that involve politics, advocacy, lobbying, publicity, making alliances, changing public opinion, and litigation. Second, small school administrators can look for ways to use existing resources more effectively. Volunteers can provide paraprofessional and other services, and community resources can be used to create a curriculum that uses the community as its focus. Third, small schools can seek new resources. This strategy is most effective at the local level and with benefactors familiar with the school. Some drawbacks of federal and state grants are discussed. (Contains 12 references.) (SV)