Rural School Struggles
Problems in Poor, Rural Districts
Politicians and the media pay a lot of attention to closing the achievement gap that affects minority students and urban schools. However, another population in the United States faces significant setbacks when it comes to education, the rural poor.
Limited Resources for Rural Schools
Rural students also have less access to free after school programs like those provided for underprivileged youth in urban centers. This exists for several reasons, the first of which is the limited attention given to this population. Additionally, a lack of local resources, community centers, and access to public transportation limit what students can do after school. Even where programs are available, many students are expected to help with farm work and do not have time for sports and other activities.
In terms of supplies, isolated rural communities are constantly wanting for more. They may be forced to use outdated textbooks and lack the technology now commonly found in most suburban and urban districts. In contrast to poor urban schools, rural schools do not often receive the support of non-profit groups and community drives that bring in money or resources. Thus, they must make do with what they have.
Rural students also have less access to community resources like museums and zoos where other students often take class trips. These enriching experiences can inspire youth to pursue a particular career path or explore a subject more deeply. Unfortunately many rural children miss out.
Trouble Recruiting Rural Teachers
Poor rural schools also tend to offer less advanced coursework due to the limited number of students. Without enough pupils to make a class worthwhile, a teacher will not be hired or assigned to upper level courses. Furthermore, finding qualified teachers for such curricula can be difficult in remote areas. In fact, even recruiting regular-level teachers can be a struggle for rural districts. This is because teachers in rural regions face lower pay, isolation from peers, and difficult working conditions.
Rural Youth and Higher Education
According to the year 2000 census report, fewer than 20% of people in rural America hold 4-year degrees compared to nearly 30% of the overall population, as discussed in The Long Road to College from Rural America by Devora Shamah.
Even for students who have the grades to attend college, the thought of moving away from a close-knit community can be a deterrent. Additionally, students would be leaving behind families who may rely on their assistance to run family farms or other businesses. Rural students may also face different family pressures regarding children and marriage. They may be expected to start an independent life sooner and not have the time to spend pursuing a college education.
Ultimately, rural schools face many difficulties in their struggle to provide a quality education. However, they are often overlooked by agencies that normally support poor, urban districts. Furthermore, rural schools face difficulties recruiting teachers and producing students ready for four-year colleges. For more information on rural schools, visit RuralEdu.
Rural Schools Need Support
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