The state board [department] may order consolidation according to the recommendations contained in a final report and recommendations of the school district survey committee approved by each local school board of each school district affected by the survey only if it determines that such consolidation:
A. will help to equalize the educational opportunities for public school students in each school district affected by the consolidation;
B. will make the most advantageous and economical use of public school facilities;
C. takes into consideration the convenience and welfare of the public school students in each school district affected by the survey; and
D. is in the best interest of public education in each school district affected by the consolidation and in the best interest of public education in the state.