Rural CTE Research Reports

Research is one of the two main pillars of the Rural IL CTE Project. Through our statewide research, we attempt to uncover and understand the needs and equity gaps rural schools face when trying to develop robust CTE offerings for their students and communities. These research efforts include surveys, focus groups, investigative studies, and field research. The Rural IL CTE Project has engaged 318 rural and small school districts through research, and has presented findings and recommended actions for building program equity in summative research reports.

Growing Rural IL Success through CTE Programs

Growing Rural IL Success through CTE Programs is the first report of its kind in Illinois to systematically research and analyze the status of CTE programs in the most rural and highest need districts across the state. The report engages over 240 rural districts as well as experts and regional service organizations through surveys, conversations, and focus groups to highlight needs and equity gaps in CTE funding, support, and awareness. Four key recommendations address the most pressing needs and lay the path forward for future research and technical assistance.

Aligning Assets & Action for Rural CTE Success

Coming Soon

Aligning Assets & Action for Rural CTE Success greatly expands the scope and depth of the original research conducted by the Rural IL CTE Project. This addendum report contacted all small town and rural schools in Illinois to learn their CTE needs and equity gaps, and to create detailed case studies of rural CTE success. The expanded research uncovered a systemic misalignment of policies and practices limiting the capacity for rural CTE growth. This report concludes with revised recommendations for building alignment through innovation and collaboration.

White Papers and Case Studies

The Rural IL CTE Project also takes a deeper look at key issues impacting rural CTE in Illinois through independent white papers. These more detailed reports offer targeted insight and advice for tackling common challenges rural schools face in developing CTE programming, such as funding and program impact. Leading national rural education researchers have collaborated with the Rural IL CTE Project to share their expertise and knowledge in creating these studies.

Rural IL CTE Project