All schools face challenges in preparing students for life beyond graduation, yet the ways these shared challenges affect schools vary widely by geography. Rural and small schools face unique challenges in providing the same quality of educational opportunities and access as suburban and urban districts. Nearly 20% of Illinois students attend rural or small-town schools, which account for 57% of all Illinois public school districts. While these districts are community hubs that contribute to a sense of local identity and economic vitality for a significant part of the state, they require intentional support from all sides to fully serve in these roles.
At a free webinar on April 27, 2026, the Illinois Education and Career Success Network hosted an open discussion on fostering unity for rural education. Rural schools, communities, higher education, industry and business, and third-party organizations shared input on working together to support student achievement and community resilience. Some suggestions on ways to strengthen collaboration included the need for a champion who intentionally creates space for partners to come together, and the importance of embracing a mindset that schools are partners, not competitors. There was also the reminder that partnering with employers helps create a ready workforce to ensure communities remain vibrant.
Speakers:
- Joey Brewer, Spoon River Valley CUSD 4, Dean of Students
- Charley Cass, Bethel SD 82, Superintendent
- John Glasgow, Program Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools
- Darryl Hogue, River Bend CUSD 2, Superintendent
- Kelly Koeppel, ISAC Rural Outreach Specialist
- Sam Nelson, Director, Organizational Development, Illinois Student Assistance Commission