Rural Kids, Big Future: The Crucial Role of Rural Students in Shaping Tomorrow

When we think about the future of education and opportunity, it’s crucial to remember that rural students represent an essential, yet often overlooked, part of the equation. While city and suburban districts receive much of the attention, the 9.3 million rural students across the U.S. represent nearly 20% of our public school population (Showalter et al., 2021). They live in communities rich with values, but many lack access to the educational resources available to their urban counterparts. The challenges they face are not just local issues—they’re national. And ensuring these kids have the tools to succeed matters for all of us.

As someone who was born in a rural town, I had to relocate to a big city to fully realize my potential. It shouldn’t have to be this way. Every rural student deserves the opportunity to flourish in their own community, without needing to leave behind their roots in search of access to resources, education, and opportunities that should be available to them no matter where they live.