Advantages of a Rural Education By Dr. Andy Smith, Associate Faculty and Coordinator for Teacher Education Programs at Prescott College, and J. Ron Hennings, Associate Faculty Education Department Core Advisor Coordinator, M.Ed. - EDL Principal Certification Program Professional Preparation Programs Rural schools offer robust opportunities for students and staff to participate in the day to day operations and activities afforded to their respective communities. The following are some examples of the relationship between stakeholders. Schools as ‘Centers of Community’ When at times it seems that any form of government feels disconnected, rural schools provide a strong example of local government where community input and participation are welcome. As the center of the community, rural schools host events including wedding receptions, Halloween carnivals, church services, and even funerals. Often open for delicate situations including emergencies, rural schools can and do provide a local meeting point for any given moment. Additionally, it gives the chance for individuals to participate civically whether on a local governing board or committee. Curricular ‘Cultural Congruency’ Cultural congruence is a process of effective interaction between the provider and client levels. The model is based on the idea that cultural competence is ever evolving; providers must continue to improve their quality of communication, leading to improved delivery. The teacher – student interaction in a smaller setting allows for a higher-level awareness regarding delivery of the curriculum and the opportunity for quick feedback and reflection. School - Staff ‘Ethnic Cohesion’/’Social Cohesion’ Building shared values and a common enterprise is another facet of rural schools. Whether it be attending a sporting event or a school concert, social cohesion is important for the dynamics of a community. Social cohesion helps guide and direct the mission and values of the school and celebrate achievements. Students as ‘Participants vs. Observers’ Rural schools, and perhaps depending on their size, supply students a wealth of opportunity regarding participation. From sports to clubs and councils, rural schools open doors. Creatively, there are not many moments where a 7th grader can win a science fair, compete in a spelling bee, play a trumpet, and start a basketball game all in the same day. Considering this, teachers also have the opportunity to participate at an extensive level. Nature-based Education Students in rural environments develop a sense of the natural rhythms of life where daily routines, seasonal changes and weather patterns provide ‘Ways of Knowing’. The interdependency of all forms of life is evident at the personal, family and community levels. Synthesized Learning vs. Siloed Knowledge In rural schools’ teachers teach across a myriad of content courses offering a natural synthesis of learning. Rural Education is a practical blend of theory and practice where application of knowledges is foremost. Historically, the one room schoolhouse enjoyed the wisdom of one teacher across several grades and topics, and although the requirements of certification may have disrupted history there are still moments where this is a prominent aspect of a student’s life. ‘Can – Do’ attitude Rural citizens develop a robust sense of self and collective efficacy. The two prevailing values in rural communities are ‘Show Me’ and ‘If it needs doing, then let’s get it done’. In rural small schools their is a powerful sense of ‘urgency’ as in ‘If it will provide for greater opportunity, then let’s implement it tomorrow’. Together we can make it happen. (continued on page 16) Page 5 “Stronger Together!”
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