The unique problems rural schools face go largely unnoticed in the national debate over the direction of the education, however. Recruitment and retention of rural teachers, principals, and administrators is difficult. Teacher salaries are lower. Bus rides are longer and transportation costs are higher. Teachers are expected to teach both in and out of the field.
Internet access is delayed.
Per pupil costs are higher yet levels of discretionary spending are lower. The good news is that rural communities still have small schools. They're important for all kinds of reasons, so we're very interested in pointing out these advantages. Rural schools also tend to be well connected to their communities. Schools are the places people go to for community events.