Knowledge From the Field

Current Challenges and Opportunities in Preparing Rural High School Students for Success in College and Careers

Published: February 2010

Publisher(s): Alliance for Excellent Education

Funder(s): Wal-mart Foundation

View Report (48 pages; 706KB; PDF)

Area of focus: Preparation for College

Abstract

This report is intended to give policymakers an understanding of the challenges rural high schools face, as well as the inherent assets that these high schools bring to the national education reform debate. It recommends best practices and policies for improving standards, accountability, student options, teachers, community support, and resources.

Key Findings and/or Recommendations

=Funding for high-level coursework, necessary to improve students’ preparation for college, is needed for many rural high schools

=Retaining effective teachers, many of whom move on to surrounding urban and suburban areas, is an important step toward improving rural high school classrooms

=Strong rural communities play a vital role in the success of their local high schools

Geographic Focus: National

Subjects/Keywords: Rural areas; rural high schools; accountability; effective teachers; preparation for college; high school improvement

+ Successful strategy
= Observation
– Challenge