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# The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://airssedu.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Response: ISBE’s 2026 Teacher Vacancy Report](https://airssedu.org/post/response-isbe-2026-teacher-vacancy-report/) - While the number of vacant teaching positions in Illinois has gone down over the past few years, the severity of the persistent shortage of quality educators in rural areas remains as potent as ever. This is the mixed reality of the Illinois State Board of Education’s (ISBE) “2026 Unfilled Positions Dashboard.” As ISBE correctly notes,
- [A White Paper Series on the Rural Schools Infrastructure Crisis](https://airssedu.org/post/opterra-series/) - Co-authored by David Ardrey, Executive Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools and Roger Eddy, Former Executive Director, Illinois Association of School Boards This series explores the critical condition of rural school infrastructure, and new infrastructure solutions made possible by a partnership between AIRSS and OPTERRA. This partnership is designed to bring unprecedented support
- [Place, Race, and Resource Gaps: Evaluating Socioeconomic Disparities and Equity in Rural Illinois CTE](https://airssedu.org/post/cte-place-race-resource-gaps/) - Career and Technical Education (CTE) has long been promoted as a pathway to workforce readiness, economic mobility, and postsecondary success. For many students, particularly those from low-income households and historically marginalized communities, CTE provides meaningful opportunities to develop practical skills, explore career options, and gain access to employment pathways that could otherwise remain out of
- [Summer 2026 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/summer-2026-pca/) - Fulton High School: Building Futures Through Real-World Learning
- [Rural PreK-12 Partnership Spotlights from OPTERRA](https://airssedu.org/post/rural-prek-12-partnership-spotlights-from-opterra/) - Your focus has always been on what matters most — educating students. But while you’ve worked tirelessly to support learning, facility needs may have slipped down the priority list. Many rural and small PreK–12 districts are in the same position, managing older buildings that are expensive to run and difficult to support. OPTERRA helps districts
- [ISBE Votes to Adopt Rural Definition Proposed by the Rural Education Advisory Council](https://airssedu.org/post/isbe-adopts-rural-definition/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Springfield, IL - Since its formation in August 2022, the Rural Education Advisory Council (REAC) has focused their efforts on creating a rural definition for Illinois. At their May 13, 2026, Board meeting, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) voted to adopt this definition. The following criteria now define a rural
- [Student Interview: Powering the Future Through Career Education](https://airssedu.org/post/student-interview-powering-the-future-through-career-education/) - Career education ignites passion and purpose within students. This is the promise of career and technical education (CTE) but far too few rural students have the opportunity to explore an industry that aligns with their interests and goals. Thankfully, through a unique internship made possible by OPTERRA Energy Solutions, El Paso-Gridley CUSD #11 students Jasper
- [Regional Rural Future Teachers’ Club Celebrates Progress and Plans for the Future](https://airssedu.org/post/regional-rural-future-teachers-club-celebrates-progress-and-plans-for-the-future/) - The Regional Rural Future Teachers’ Club gathered for its spring event to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and to think strategically about the road ahead. The event brought together students, teachers, and education leaders to reflect on what the club has built and to identify the next steps for the future. Leadership and Organizational Support The
- [Building a More Equitable and Connected Dual Credit CTE System in Illinois](https://airssedu.org/post/building-a-more-equitable-and-connected-dual-credit-cte-system-in-illinois/) - Executive Summary Illinois’ community college systems play a vital role in providing access to affordable post-secondary education and workforce training. In rural areas, these institutions often serve as a primary pathway beyond high school. Dual credit programs within Career and Technical Education (CTE) allow students to earn college credit, industry-aligned skills while reducing the cost
- [OPTERRA + El Paso-Gridley #11](https://airssedu.org/post/el-paso-gridley/) - District #11, under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. DeAnn Heck, partnered with OPTERRA to achieve board goals and enhance infrastructure with $4.2 million in capital improvements across 92,676 sq. ft. of school facilities.
- [OPTERRA + Riverton #14](https://airssedu.org/post/riverton/) - District #14, under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Brad Polanin, partnered with OPTERRA twice to accelerate their vision with over $11.6 million in creative solutions across 106,488 sq. ft. of school buildings.
- [OPTERRA + Paris #4](https://airssedu.org/post/paris/) - District #4, under the leadership of Superintendent Danette Young, partnered with OPTERRA to enhance health/life safety and renew infrastructure with over $4.2 million in capital improvements across 73,890 sq. ft. of school facilities.
- [Meet the 2026 Illinois Rural Teachers of Distinction](https://airssedu.org/post/2026-tod/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools once again received several outstanding applications for our Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year Award, a recognition program now in its second year. The following three finalists are awarded the 2026 Teacher of Distinction title, and our winner will be selected from these outstanding educators. Thank you
- [Join Us for the First-Ever Rural Education Conference in Illinois!](https://airssedu.org/post/airsscon26/) - Exploring Student Career SuccessApril 17, 2026Richland Community College (Decatur, IL)Virtual Option Available While there are a lot of education conferences in Illinois, our event is the first one catered to the rural and small school perspective. If you are a rural educator, administrator, or CTE director, this event is designed for you! For our first
- [2026 REAP Eligibility Sheet Available: Check For Your District Now](https://airssedu.org/post/2026-reap-eligibility/) - AIRSS has continued to fight for the necessity of REAP funding at the federal level, and we remain committed to your students, staff, and schools by fighting further for the accuracy of this eligibility list.
- [Spring 2026 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/spring-2026-pca/) - Bureau Valley CUSD #340: Investing in Rural Career Pathways
- [Regional Rural Future Teachers’ Club Continues Momentum with Second Spring Event](https://airssedu.org/post/regional-rural-future-teachers-club-continues-momentum-with-second-spring-event/) - The journey toward the classroom continued on March 10th as the Regional Rural Future Teachers’ Club held the second of its three scheduled spring events. Building on the energy of the January launch, students from our partner schools gathered once again to explore the diverse and rewarding world of education. The event was hosted by
- [Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools Completes Most Detailed Career Education Report To-Date: Finds Rural Problems, Perseverance, and Hope](https://airssedu.org/post/feb-2026-cte-report/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MACOMB, IL, FEBRUARY 2026 – The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) has completed a third statewide assessment of rural career and technical education programs (CTE) through their partnership with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and Regional Office of Education 26 called the Rural IL CTE Project. The Project
- [First Regional Rural Future Teacher Club Event](https://airssedu.org/post/first-regional-rural-future-teacher-club-event/) - The future of our local rural classrooms just got a little brighter! On January 29th, students from across the region gathered for the inaugural meeting of the Regional Rural Future Teacher Club, marking a significant milestone in how our community cultivates the next generation of educators. This initiative is made possible by the CTE Education
- [Growing Rural Computer Science Lessons through Ag Education](https://airssedu.org/post/growing-rural-computer-science-lessons-through-ag-education/) - Rural and small school districts have an incredible opportunity to leverage their agriculture classes to offer invaluable career skill development for all students. The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools Rural IL CTE Project team recently explored this opportunity through a workshop for Ag educators with the Illinois Learning Technology Center (LTC) at Regional
- [Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 Becomes Law](https://airssedu.org/post/secure-rural-schools-reauthorization-act-2025/) - President Trump signed H.R. 1383, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, into law on December 22, 2025, after bipartisan support moved it through the House and Senate. The bill was introduced earlier this year with the goal of extending the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. Originally introduced in Congress
- [Driving Equity: Understanding and Addressing Transportation Barriers in Rural Illinois](https://airssedu.org/post/driving-equity-transportation-barriers/) - For rural districts in Illinois, transportation remains one of the most expensive and logistically complex responsibilities.
- [AIRSS Welcomes New Partner, OneGoal](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-welcomes-new-partner-onegoal/) - Thank you to OneGoal for your support of our mission to advocate and be the VOICE of Illinois rural and small schools! The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) is excited to partner with this organization focused on equitable postsecondary opportunities for rural students. OneGoal is a nonprofit organization providing advising and support
- [Winter 2025 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/winter-2025-pca/) - Bureau Valley CUSD #340: Investing in Rural Career Pathways
- [A Cornucopia of CTE Creativity](https://airssedu.org/post/cte-cornucopia/) - This Thanksgiving season, we’re celebrating the incredible variety of CTE programs that help students build real-world skills and bright futures. We asked you to share your unique CTE program and show us what makes it special, whether it’s a classroom project, community partnership, or student success story. Let’s give thanks for hands-on learning, career exploration,
- [AIRSS Featured in Illinois Farmer Today](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-featured-in-illinois-farmer-today/) - A deeper look at how the Pandemic is impacting rural Illinois schools.
- [AIRSS and Central States Bus Sales Announce Exclusive New Partnership to Support Illinois Rural](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-and-central-states-bus-sales-announce-exclusive-new-partnership-to-support-illinois-rural/) - This partnership represents AIRSS philosophy of finding the right fit and relationship to support the needs of Illinois Rural and Small Schools.
- [Monmouth TARTANS, Students Share Rural Teacher Corps Experience](https://airssedu.org/post/monmouth-tartans-students-share-rural-teacher-corps-experience/) - The TARTANS rural teacher corps program shared experiences from the program and answered questions from a national audience of rural educators.
- [Illinois Feature for I Am A Rural Teacher](https://airssedu.org/post/illinois-feature-for-i-am-a-rural-teacher-2/) - An outstanding rural Illinois teacher is featured by Rural Schools Collaborative.
- [Miss Illinois - Power of Wonder](https://airssedu.org/post/miss-illinois-power-of-wonder/) - Miss Illinois Ariel Beverly visits rural schools and inspires wonder among students, staff, and AIRSS alike.
- [Illinois Feature for I Am A Rural Teacher](https://airssedu.org/post/illinois-feature-for-i-am-a-rural-teacher/) - For Kylee Payne, the past 8 months have been filled with new experiences. She started her first year teaching, helped to implement a new curriculum, and now she’s finishing up the school year virtually.
- [#WeCanDoThis Twitter Campaign 2.0](https://airssedu.org/post/wecandothis-twitter-campaign-2-0/) - We invite you to share the following images on your Twitter account to advocate for rural teacher-leaders.
- [Partner Spotlight: Carty & Company, H.E. Mitchell, P3 Group](https://airssedu.org/post/partner-spotlight-carty-company-h-e-mitchell-p3-group/) - Meet our three newest business partners!
- [Carlin Smock selected to be a 2022-23 Celia B. Godsil Grants in Place Fellow!](https://airssedu.org/post/carlin-smock-selected-to-be-a-2022-23-celia-b-godsil-grants-in-place-fellow/) - Carlin Smock's project has been selected to be a Celia B. Godsil Grants in Place Fellow for the 2022-23 school year.
- [AIRSS, the Rural Teacher Corps, and An Old Twist on a New Problem](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-the-rural-teacher-corps-and-an-old-twist-on-a-new-problem/) - Creating a national rural teacher corps movement is imperative for the success of our schools and communities.
- [Small Illinois school districts seeking a greater voice in Springfield](https://airssedu.org/post/small-illinois-school-districts-seeking-a-greater-voice-in-springfield/) - The head of the Macomb school system said small, rural districts are not being heard in Springfield.
- [LeadRural Fellowship](https://airssedu.org/post/leadrural-fellowship/) - An initiative and opportunity to catalyze rural leaders who are seeking to bring innovation to their communities, learn new ideas, and connect and network with other rural leaders across the state of Texas.
- [Evidence Based Funding Spending Plan](https://airssedu.org/post/evidence-based-funding-spending-plan/) - AIRSS joined an advisory group to review and redesign the EBF Spending Plan with ISBE.
- [Happy Teacher Appreciation Week from AIRSS](https://airssedu.org/post/happy-teacher-appreciation-week-from-airss/) - Dear rural educators, The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools extends our heartfelt gratitude to all rural and small school teachers for their unwavering dedication in shaping the minds and futures of students in underserved areas, often without many resources or recognition. Your commitment to education is inspiring and truly makes a difference, and
- [North Central College Announces New Partnership with AIRSS](https://airssedu.org/post/north-central-college-announces-new-partnership-with-airss/) - The partnership enables North Central to expand its outreach for the Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree program and Character Education Certificate program to AIRSS members.
- [ISBE names Dr. Tony Sanders new State Superintendent of Education](https://airssedu.org/post/isbe-names-dr-tony-sanders-new-state-superintendent-of-education/) - AIRSS looks forward to working with Dr. Sanders to support his vision for education in Illinois and sharing with him the perspective and realities of our rural and small schools.
- [SB1787 Passes!](https://airssedu.org/post/sb1787-passes/) - After years of hard work and strong rural advocacy, Governor JB Pritzker signed into law Senate Bill 1787 – The Rural Education Advisory Council.
- [The Teacher Shortage from the Rural Perspective](https://airssedu.org/post/the-teacher-shortage-from-the-rural-perspective/) - The teacher shortage has become a hard reality in 2023.
- [THANK YOU: SB 1787 Passes House Education Committee](https://airssedu.org/post/thank-you-sb-1787-passes-house-education-committee/) - The Bill passes unanimously in a Senate committee.
- [IMPORTANT - Update on Senate Bill 1787](https://airssedu.org/post/important-update-on-senate-bill-1787/) - Join us as a witness to support the passage of a critical bill.
- [A Thank You to Governor JB Pritzker](https://airssedu.org/post/a-thank-you-to-governor-jb-pritzker/) - In the Governor's budget address put forward number of proposals to support education, and specifically rural and small schools.
- [Honoring Jim Beddow](https://airssedu.org/post/honoring-jim-beddow/) - It is with great sadness that I share that Dr. Jim Beddow, a friend and former Rural Schools Collaborative (RSC) Board Member, passed away on Sunday, June 25 after a brief and unexpected illness. I had the privilege to serve with Jim on the RSC board and watched him support rural and small schools with
- [AIRSS Executive Director Meets with Governor Rauner](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-executive-director-meets-with-governor-rauner/) - The Friday morning meeting held at the Governors office in Chicago yielded a strong conversation regarding the challenges facing our rural schools and communities and the children they serve.
- [AIRSS Board of Directors Transition](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-board-of-directors-transition/) - At the September 28, 2017 annual membership and Board of Directors meeting the peaceful transition of power occurred.
- [Thank You to Illinois Secretary of Education Dr. Beth Purvis](https://airssedu.org/post/thank-you-to-illinois-secretary-of-education-dr-beth-purvis/) - AIRSS would like to publicly thank Dr. Purvis for her service to the state of Illinois, her commitment to our schools and children and in particular her willingness to learn and support Illinois rural and small schools.
- [Friday, November 17th is Illinois Rural and Small School Day!](https://airssedu.org/post/friday-november-17th-is-illinois-rural-and-small-school-day/) - Governor Rauner has issued this proclamation to generate awareness of the vital roles rural and small schools play.
- [Why Rural America Should Lead the CTE Charge to Reimagine Schools](https://airssedu.org/post/why-rural-america-should-lead-the-cte-charge-to-reimagine-schools/) - By Joe Brewer When Thomas bolted out of my history class to respond to an accident on a remote road in our rural community, his training as a student EMT helped him turn fear into action. At just 17 years old, Thomas was the first to arrive on the scene—a heavy responsibility for someone his
- [The Rural Infrastructure Crisis: A Ticking Time Bomb](https://airssedu.org/post/the-rural-infrastructure-crisis-a-ticking-time-bomb/) - By Roger Eddy, Former Executive Director, Illinois Association of School Boards This article is part two of a series by AIRSS and OPTERRA Energy Services to explore the coming crisis of rural school infrastructure. Traditional, piecemeal solutions are no longer sufficient to address this issue, and rural schools must move beyond traditional vendor relationships to
- [Why Rural Districts Must Embrace a New Master Planning Approach](https://airssedu.org/post/why-rural-districts-must-embrace-a-new-master-planning-approach/) - By David Ardrey, Executive Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools This article is part three of a series by AIRSS and OPTERRA Energy Services to explore the coming crisis of rural school infrastructure. Traditional, piecemeal solutions are no longer sufficient to address this issue, and rural schools must move beyond traditional vendor relationships
- [Executive Summary](https://airssedu.org/post/executive-summary-opterra-series/) - A White Paper Series Co-authored by: Dave Ardrey, Executive Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) Roger Eddy, Former Executive Director, Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) This article is the first in a series exploring the critical condition of rural school infrastructure, and new infrastructure solutions made possible by a partnership between
- [Master Planning for Facilities Modernization is a “Need” not a “Want”](https://airssedu.org/post/master-planning-for-facilities-modernization-is-a-need-not-a-want/) - By David Ardrey, Executive Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools and Roger Eddy, Former Executive Director, Illinois Association of School Boards This article is the final part of a series by AIRSS and OPTERRA Energy Services to explore the coming crisis of rural school infrastructure. Traditional, piecemeal solutions are no longer sufficient to
- [This Ain’t Your Grandfather’s CTE: Revitalizing Rural Schools through Career Technical Education](https://airssedu.org/post/this-aint-your-grandfathers-cte/) - Guest author and veteran educator Joe Brewer shares how CTE programming improves student outcomes
- [2024 Rural IL CTE Project Report Now Available](https://airssedu.org/post/2024-cte-report/) - A First-of-its-Kind Report on the Status and Health of Rural Illinois Career & Technical Education Programming
- [Introducing the Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/introducing-the-prairie-career-advocate/) - Geneseo CUSD #228: Expanding Pathways and Horizons through Community Collaboration
- [The Role and Economic Effects of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Rural Illinois Communities](https://airssedu.org/post/the-role-and-economic-effects-of-cte-in-rural-illinois-communities/) - Career and Technical Education (CTE) has strong potential in rural schools to serve as a student empowerment and community revitalization powerhouse. Because of their embeddedness, rural schools have long been the foundation of their local economy and society, and CTE offers a direct tie that links school to community through student professional development. Despite this
- [Spring 2025 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/spring-2025-pca/) - Bunker Hill CUSD #8: Overcoming Obstacles and Embracing Change for Student Success
- [Winter 2024 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/winter-2024-pca/) - Reed-Custer CUSD 255-U: Bringing Professionalism and Purpose to the “Hobby Shop”
- [Fall 2025 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/fall-2025-pca/) - Stillman Valley High School: The Changing Field of Ag Education
- [Summer 2025 Issue of The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/summer-2025-pca/) - Flora CUSD #35: Sustaining Momentum for Education Innovation
- [Congratulations to the 133 Rural Schools Designated as "Exemplary" by the 2025 Illinois Report Card](https://airssedu.org/post/2025-il-report-card/) - The Illinois Report Card is an annual report released by the Illinois State Board of Education, detailing how schools, districts, and the state as a whole are performing. Schools in the state are ranked in the following categories each year: Exemplary School Commendable School Targeted Support School Comprehensive Support School Intensive Support School We are
- [Do Rural Students with Disabilities Still Have a Fair Chance?](https://airssedu.org/post/do-rural-students-with-disabilities-still-have-a-fair-chance/) - AIRSS Joins Hundreds of Organizations in Condemning Sweeping Cuts to the U.S. Department of Education
- [Support Rural Sessions at the 2025 Joint Annual Conference in Chicago](https://airssedu.org/post/2025-triple-i-sessions/) - The AIRSS team looks forward to seeing you at this year's Joint Annual Conference! We have several sessions featuring AIRSS leadership, including the return of our Coffee & Conversation on Sunday. Make sure to add these sessions to your schedule, and don't forget to visit us at Booth 127 in the Exhibitor Hall. Learn more
- [Introducing the 2025 Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year: Dee Rose, Shawnee CUSD #84](https://airssedu.org/post/2025-rtoy/) - Rural teachers need to be elevated and celebrated. For all the conversations and challenges we hear about our public education system, it is all too easy to forget that behind it all are living, breathing, thinking, feeling professionals that desire to love our children into becoming the best versions of themselves possible. For this reason,
- [New Review of Rural and Small School Career Education Programs Finds Systemic Misalignment Hinders Student Access and Achievement](https://airssedu.org/post/2025-cte-report-release/) - MACOMB, IL – The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) has completed its initial statewide assessment of rural career and technical education programs (CTE) with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Western Illinois University Seymour Center for Rural Education. This initiative, called the Rural IL CTE Project, was launched in
- [Illinois Rural Education Policy Insufficiencies Ranked as Most “Crucial” in the Nation According to the 2025 Why Rural Matters Report](https://airssedu.org/post/response-wrm-2025/) - MACOMB, IL –The National Rural Education Association (NREA) recently launched the 2025 Why Rural Matters report, a project with a more than 20-year history of shaping the conversation about rural education. First conceptualized by the Rural Schools and Community Trust, the report has evolved into a vital resource for policymakers, educators, and communities. Why Rural
- [AIRSS Receives Career Pathway Grant in Partnership with WACS, ROE26, ISBE](https://airssedu.org/post/career-pathway-grant/) - AIRSS is dedicated to advancing education for rural students, and supporting Career and Technical Education (CTE) has become a main focus in that goal; our work surrounding CTE programming has grown significantly over the past two years through our Rural IL CTE Project. As well, we are adamant about finding solutions to the rural teacher
- [Middle School CTE: Foundation for Lifelong Learning](https://airssedu.org/post/middle-school-cte-foundation-for-lifelong-learning/) - Intro When most people hear “career and technical education,” (CTE) they picture high school students in a shop class, coding in a computer lab, or learning agricultural basics in a greenhouse. But what if we’re starting too late? By the time students reach high school, many have already formed perceptions about themselves. They have preconceived
- [2025 AIRSS Annual Report is Now Available](https://airssedu.org/post/2025-annual-report/) - We are excited to present our 2025 Annual Report: "We Are Here!" Defining “rural” for Illinois is an essential task that AIRSS is determined to carry forward under the leadership of its new President, Chris Janssen. It allows us to say with confidence and pride that “We Are Here!” and it gives direction and focus
- [The Chronic Rural Educator Shortage and Hopeful Actions to Address It](https://airssedu.org/post/the-chronic-rural-educator-shortage-and-hopeful-actions-to-address-it/) - John Glasgow, Program Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools David Ardrey, Executive Director, Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools Tom Withee, Director, Goshen Consulting Inc. A healthy public school system is essential for a vibrant society and a robust economy. These institutions are a cornerstone of American life. Challenges in how we conduct education,
- [Partnering to Power Progress Across Illinois Rural & Small Schools: AIRSS + OPTERRA](https://airssedu.org/post/opterra-partnership/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESeptember 1, 2025 Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools Announces Premier Sponsorship with OPTERRA to Support Rural School Infrastructure and Facilities Modernization Springfield, IL – The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS), representing more than 500 member districts statewide, is proud to announce a new Premier Annual Sponsorship with OPTERRA
- [Introducing Karli Strom](https://airssedu.org/post/introducing-karli-strom/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools is excited to welcome Karli Strom to our work as an Assistant Director reviewing Career and Technical Education. Karli was born and raised in rural Warren County. Growing up in and around rural Illinois, she saw both the challenges and the incredible resilience that define them, and
- [Illinois Rural Teacher Corps Programs Build Community and Career Readiness at Spring Retreat](https://airssedu.org/post/rtc-retreat-2025/) - As all in rural education understand, there is an ongoing and pervasive shortage of educators in rural schools. Although the most recent IARSS Educator Shortage Report: Academic Year 2024 - 2025 recently published by the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools and the Illinois State Board of Education points to promising trends that the
- [Meet the 2025 Illinois Rural Teachers of Distinction](https://airssedu.org/post/2025-tod/) - Recently, the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools launched the nomination form for our first-ever Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year Award. We were thrilled to receive several outstanding applications, and while the winner will be notified and announced after June 6, we wanted to recognize all of the nominees as Teachers of Distinction
- [AIRSS Welcomes New Partner, Kings Financial Consulting, Inc.](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-welcomes-kingsfci/) - Thank you to Kings Financial Consulting, Inc. for your support of our mission to advocate and be the VOICE of Illinois rural and small schools! Please read their full statement below, and visit their website for more information. Kings Financial Consulting, Inc. is pleased to join the membership of the Association of Illinois Rural and
- [Starting Ahead of the Curve: CompTIA Spark Offers Rural School Districts a Free Platform for Cutting-Edge Middle Grades Career Exploration](https://airssedu.org/post/comptia-spark-webinar/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools recently co-hosted a webinar with CompTIA Spark to showcase their free platform of interactive career exploration units for middle school students. The full recording of the webinar can be accessed here. AIRSS has spent the past year directing research through the Rural IL CTE Project to uncover
- [2024 AIRSS Annual Report is Now Available](https://airssedu.org/post/2024-annual-report/) - We are excited to present our 2024 Annual Report: "We Are Connected." This report details how AIRSS has grown and become an integral part of rural advocacy in Illinois through our connections to state agencies, member school districts, national organizations, and individuals.
- [Ending on a High Note of Advocacy: The AIRSS Board and Staff Represent Rural Illinois on the Road](https://airssedu.org/post/ending-on-a-high-note-of-advocacy/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools team, Executive Director David Ardrey, Director Hailey Winkleman, and Associate Director John Glasgow, hit the road this fall representing rural schools and rural Illinois at a number of high profile education conferences and gatherings. At each event, the three were able to communicate through data and narrative
- [NREA Names David M. Ardrey as Interim Executive Director Effective October 1](https://airssedu.org/post/nrea-names-david-m-ardrey-as-interim-executive-director-effective-october-1/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 1, 2024execdir@nrea.net Chattanooga, TN – The Executive Committee of the National Rural Education Association (NREA) has announced the appointment of David M. Ardrey as the Interim Executive Director of the NREA. Mr. Ardrey is currently the Executive Director of the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) and will continue in his role alongside
- [Bunker Hill 8 - Lewis & Clark Selected for Pilot Program](https://airssedu.org/post/bunker-hill-8-lewis-clark-selected-for-pilot-program/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT: TODD DUGAN 618-585-3116 BUNKER HILL, IL -- Macoupin County PK-12 school district Bunker Hill CUSD 8 and their higher education partner Lewis & Clark Community College were recently recruited to participate in the non-profit Collegiate Edu-Nation’s first National P-20 Convening in Abilene, Texas. Completely funded by a grant from the Carnegie Foundation,
- [RASI Helps Rural Students Find Community and College Success](https://airssedu.org/post/rasi-promotes-college-and-career-readiness-for-rural-students/) - Starting college was difficult for me. Even though I always excelled in my small town Illinois school district, and still view myself as a lifelong student with a zeal for learning, I had no idea the initial challenges I would face. I had the opportunity to attend college in a major urban area hours and
- [Response: Rural CTE and the “Great Misalignment”](https://airssedu.org/post/response-rural-cte-and-the-great-misalignment/) - It’s no secret that our education system is struggling to inspire and train the next generation of the American workforce, and this problem is especially pernicious for rural districts. The Rural IL CTE Project has just concluded its first year, focusing on research, showing that rural and small school districts across Illinois are struggling to
- [#FundTheFormula Campaign](https://airssedu.org/post/fundtheformula-campaign/) - Prioritizing at least $350M for EBF in the Governor’s FY23 Budget and State of the State Address.
- [#RuralBroadband Twitter Campaign - August 1-14](https://airssedu.org/post/ruralbroadband-twitter-campaign-august-1-14/) - Join us as we raise awareness for the lack of broadband access in rural areas.
- [2023-24 Grants in Place Fellows](https://airssedu.org/post/2023-24-grants-in-place-fellows/) - Rural teachers in Illinois are eligible for a $2,500 classroom grant!
- [2022 Grants in Place Application Now Open!](https://airssedu.org/post/2022-grants-in-place-application-now-open/) - A classroom grant opportunity for all rural Illinois teachers.
- [Rural Technology Fund - Grants Available](https://airssedu.org/post/rural-technology-fund-grants-available/) - A technology grant opportunity for rural schools.
- [2024 National Signature Project Award](https://airssedu.org/post/2024-nspa/) - The NATIONAL SIGNATURE PROJECT AWARD is awarded annually to an outstanding and innovative classroom project that exemplifies the very best in rural, place-based education. The National Signature Project Award is open to any rural classroom teacher in the United States, and it is jointly funded by Rural Schools Collaborative (RSC) and the National Rural Education
- [Invitation to the Student Attendance and Engagement Solutions Network](https://airssedu.org/post/invitation-to-the-student-attendance-and-engagement-solutions-network/) - This blog post comes from the Domestic Policy Council at The White House. We are excited to share with you an invitation to join the Student Attendance and Engagement Solutions Network (Attendance Solutions Network) which we hope you will share with your members. The Attendance Solutions Network, part of the National Partnership for Student Success (NPSS), a
- [Training for Rural Vitality: Reflecting on the First Year of the Rural IL CTE Project](https://airssedu.org/post/training-for-rural-vitality/) - I am a huge proponent for the power of our small towns and country places. As a product of a small town in West Central Illinois myself, I feel the struggles we have faced in a social and economic system that does not regard rural places as much more than either a backward anachronism that
- [Celebrating Rural & Small Schoolteachers during Teacher Appreciation Week!](https://airssedu.org/post/taw-2024/) - Teachers are the cornerstone of our rural schools and communities. The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools was thrilled to see the great responses from our network to nominate rural educators of all types whom they respect and admire. Thank you to everyone who participated, and especially to our rural educators across Illinois working
- [AIRSS Forms the Rural IL Career and Technical Education Advisory Council](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-forms-cte-council/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) is thrilled to announce the creation of an Advisory Council for the Rural IL CTE Project, a partnership between AIRSS and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). This high-level group brings together CTE educators, rural school administrators, nonprofit advocates, national experts, and industry partners for
- [Horace Mann and Illinois Principals Association Announce 2024 Illinois High School Principal of the Year](https://airssedu.org/post/2024-high-school-principal/) - Contact: Dr. Jason E. Leahy, Executive Director, Illinois Principals Association Phone: 217-525-1383 Email: jason@ilprincipals.org Horace Mann and the Illinois Principals Association are pleased to announce that Natalie Page, principal of Sesser-Valier High School in Sesser, has been named the 2024 Illinois High School Principal of the Year. The award recognizes high school principals who have demonstrated
- [Illinois State Board of Education Board Member visit Rural Schools with AIRSS](https://airssedu.org/post/illinois-state-board-of-education-board-member-visit-rural-schools-with-airss/) - Illinois State Board of Education member Dr. Kevin Settle visits Southern Illinois rural schools with AIRSS Executive Director Dave Ardrey.
- [AIRSS Welcomes Four New Board Members and Transitions to New President](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-welcomes-four-new-board-members-and-transitions-to-new-president/) - Please join us in welcoming these outstanding individuals, who will each serve a two-year term beginning January 1, 2023.
- [AIRSS Announces Partnership with Miss Illinois](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-announces-partnership-with-miss-illinois/) - Miss Illinois 2019 Ariel Beverly and the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools have joined forces to advocate for increased access to arts and general education in Illinois schools.
- [Illini Bluffs Recognized by U.S. Department of Education](https://airssedu.org/post/illini-bluffs-recognized-by-u-s-department-of-education/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools congratulates the Illini Bluffs School District #32 on the recent recognition by the U.S. Department of Education.
- [Non-Profit Arts Sector is Economic Engine for Peoria](https://airssedu.org/post/non-profit-arts-sector-is-economic-engine-for-peoria/) - Miss Illinois 2019 makes an official proclamation in support of Arts in Education.
- [Rural Education Advisory Council Discusses Defining Rural in Illinois](https://airssedu.org/post/rural-ed-council-defines-rural/) - The new Illinois Rural Education Advisory Council, created through the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 1787 last year, met for the second time to begin work on some of the most pressing issues facing rural and small schools across the state. The Council represents a critical opportunity for rural communities and schools to have representation
- [Rural Education Advisory Council Members and First Meeting Date Announced](https://airssedu.org/post/reac-members-announced/) - The Newest Voices of Rural and Small Schools The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) worked for several years to create, through legislation, the Rural Education Advisory Council (REAC) in Illinois. In 2023, this vision came one step closer to reality with the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 1787 (Public Act 103-0457). AIRSS
- [Rural CTE Council Convenes at Western Illinois University](https://airssedu.org/post/cte-council-at-wiu/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools was thrilled to host members of the Rural Illinois Career & Technical Education Project Advisory Council as well as special guests from Western Illinois University and the Illinois State Board of Education for an in-person meeting to discuss new data on the status of CTE programs at
- [Assessing the State of Rural Career & Technical Education Programs](https://airssedu.org/post/rural-cte-survey-results/) - Engaging rural schools across the state to understand their needs and experiences is the bedrock foundation of the Rural IL CTE Project. To accomplish this, the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) issued a first-take Rural IL CTE Survey. AIRSS believes strongly that the best way to advocate for rural and small schools
- [As a Tennessee rural educator, I fear that school voucher expansion will hurt our children](https://airssedu.org/post/allen-pratt-school-vouchers/) - by Dr. Allen Pratt The National Rural Education Association (NREA) advocates for equitable educational opportunities for the nearly 9 million students attending rural public schools across America. Tennessee has over 600,000 students in rural districts that are the backbone of our communities. But now our rural schools face an existential threat from school vouchers. Public rural schools
- [The Rural IL CTE Project Hears from Educators and Experts at the 94th Annual IACTE Conference](https://airssedu.org/post/2024-iacte-conference/) - The Rural IL CTE Project, a new partnership between the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), has a goal of meeting with and listening to as many rural career and technical education (CTE) programs as possible. To this end, program director John Glasgow attended the
- [Introducing the Rural IL CTE Project Resource Portal](https://airssedu.org/post/cte-project-resource-portal/) - To celebrate National CTE Month, AIRSS thrilled to unveil the Rural IL CTE Project Resource Portal! This page hosts an in-depth compilation of career and technical education resources, tools, and support. Our hope is that it will help rural and small schools better access the assistance they need for their programs to thrive by bringing
- [Introducing the Rural IL Career & Technical Education Project](https://airssedu.org/post/cte-grant/) - A partnership between AIRSS and the Illinois State Board of Education.
- [Webb Elected to Governing Board of AASA](https://airssedu.org/post/webb-elected-to-governing-board-of-aasa/) - AIRSS congratulates our past president on his new appointment.
- [Dongola USD 66 Receives $25,000 Grant for WeatherBug System](https://airssedu.org/post/dongola-usd-66-receives-25000-grant-for-weatherbug-system/) - AIRSS would like to extend its congratulations to the rural and small schools in Illinois who received grants from the 2015 America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education program.
- [New AIRSS Partnership](https://airssedu.org/post/new-airss-partnership/) - As AIRSS continues to develop partnerships and programs to support our rural and small schools, we are excited to announce our partnership with the Monsanto Fund and the Americas Farmers Grow Rural Education program.
- [Illinois Secretary of Education Discusses Serious Rural School Issues](https://airssedu.org/post/illinois-secretary-of-education-discusses-serious-rural-school-issues/) - The Secretary met with AIRSS President Dr. Patrick M. Twomey to discuss the state of rural and small schools across Illinois.
- [Egyptian High School Teacher and Students Embark On School Climate Investigation](https://airssedu.org/post/egyptian-high-school-teacher-and-students-embark-on-school-climate-investigation/) - Amy Sitton, Egyptian High School English teacher, was recognized with her students for her successful Grants in Place project.
- [Chebanse Elementary School Completes Outdoor Learning Classroom](https://airssedu.org/post/chebanse-elementary-school-completes-outdoor-learning-classroom/) - We are pleased to report on the very first completion of a Rural Schools Collaborative Grants in Place project.
- [AIRSS National Policy and Advocacy](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-national-policy-and-advocacy/) - AIRSS Executive Director Dave Ardrey shares updates on his advocate trip to Washington DC.
- [2015 Illinois Rural and Small School Day](https://airssedu.org/post/2015-illinois-rural-and-small-school-day/) - Governor Rauner has issued this proclamation to generate awareness of the vital roles rural and small schools play.
- [Brain Drain Is Not A Rural Inevitability](https://airssedu.org/post/brain-drain-is-not-a-rural-inevitability/) - We invite you to read Sarah Halasz Graham's third and final installment in a journalistic series that explores rural "brain drain."
- [Carbon Monoxide Act](https://airssedu.org/post/carbon-monoxide-act/) - The State Congress of Illinois voted to update the School Code to require carbon monoxide detectors.
- [Collaboration, Commitment & Creativity Drive Outcomes](https://airssedu.org/post/collaboration-commitment-creativity-drive-outcomes/) - Rural Schools Collaborative shares about AIRSS's work to support rural schools nationally as well as at home in Illinois.
- [Rally for School Funding](https://airssedu.org/post/rally-for-school-funding/) - AIRSS attended the Fair Funding Rally on the steps of the Capitol in Springfield to advocate for school funding on your behalf.
- [HB656 has passed both the House and the Senate​](https://airssedu.org/post/hb656-has-passed-both-the-house-and-the-senate/) - AIRSS is pleased to report that HB656 has passed both the House and the Senate and is on the way to the Governor's desk for signature.
- [Challenges and Opportunities in Southern Illinois](https://airssedu.org/post/challenges-and-opportunities-in-southern-illinois/) - Dr. Gary Funk reminds us of the good that exists in our respective communities.
- [Triple-I and AIRSS - successful conference beginnings...](https://airssedu.org/post/triple-i-and-airss-successful-conference-beginnings/) - AIRSS receives an overflowing audience at this year's IASB Joint Conference.
- [Investing in Rural Prosperity](https://airssedu.org/post/investing-in-rural-prosperity/) - A new book explores strategies for cultivating thriving rural communities.
- [The AIRSS Team Represents Illinois at the National Forum to Advance Rural Education in Tennessee](https://airssedu.org/post/nfare-2023/) - The AIRSS team was able to journey down to Chattanooga to attend the event.
- [WIU Opens New Center for Rural Education](https://airssedu.org/post/wiu-opens-new-center-for-rural-ed/) - The Arlington and Arlene Seymour Center for Rural Education launches to support schools across the state.
- [Rural Illinois School Receives National Blue Ribbon Award](https://airssedu.org/post/rural-illinois-school-receives-national-blue-ribbon-award/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools is proud to join the United States Department of Education in recognizing New Simpson Hill School District 32 as a National Blue Ribbon School.
- [The Delta School: A Learning Model for Rural Education?](https://airssedu.org/post/the-delta-school-a-learning-model-for-rural-education/) - This article from Grant Lichtman explores how rural schools are pivoting to address lack of service and support, especially the Delta School in Memphis, TN.
- [Teacher Feature - Vinnie Rivera](https://airssedu.org/post/teacher-feature-vinnie-rivera/) - A new rural Illinois teacher story from our friends at Rural Schools Collaborative as part of their I Am A Rural Teacher Project.
- [Partner Feature: Evil Eye Creative Studio](https://airssedu.org/post/partner-feature-evil-eye-creative-studio/) - Since 2018, Evil Eye Creative Studio (EECS) has been a close partner of AIRSS, creating print and digital communications materials, representing us at conferences, and connecting us with other entities.
- [David Ardrey Elected President of National Rural Education Association](https://airssedu.org/post/david-ardrey-elected-president-of-national-rural-education-association/) - David M. Ardrey has been elected and will accept the role of President of the National Rural Education Association (NREA), serving as the 116th President and only the third Illinoisian to hold the position.
- [Introducing John Glasgow](https://airssedu.org/post/introducing-john-glasgow/) - Meet AIRSS's new program director!
- [AIRSS Celebrates the Passage of SB1787 at This Year’s IASA Conference](https://airssedu.org/post/airss-celebrates-the-passage-of-sb1787-at-this-years-iasa-conference/) - The exciting news was shared with school administrators from across Illinois.
- [Several Rural and Small Illinois Schools Receive 2023 National Blue Ribbon Award](https://airssedu.org/post/several-rural-and-small-illinois-schools-receive-2023-national-blue-ribbon-award/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools is proud to join the United States Department of Education in celebrating outstanding schools.
- [You're Invited: AIRSS Triple I Session](https://airssedu.org/post/youre-invited-airss-triple-i-session/) - You are invited to join us in Chicago.
- [The AIRSS Executive Board Celebrates SB1787 with Attendees at the 2023 IASB Joint Annual Conference](https://airssedu.org/post/the-airss-executive-board-celebrates-sb1787-with-attendees-at-the-2023-iasb-joint-annual-conference/) - This year’s Rural and Small School Session at the Conference celebrated the creation of the Rural Education Advisory Council
- [Meet AIRSS’s Three Newest Board Members](https://airssedu.org/post/meet-airsss-three-newest-board-members/) - Please join us in welcoming these great rural advocates as they prepare to kick off their two-year terms on January 1st, 2024.

## Pages

- [Home](https://airssedu.org/) - Who Are We? The only statewide association focused on rural and small schools. AIRSS was chartered in 1987 with the purpose of presenting a unified effort to promote educational excellence in rural and small schools in Illinois. Our emphasis is to give identity, voice and recognition to rural and small schools and their local communities.
- [Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit](https://airssedu.org/cte/marketing-toolkit/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council Please enter your email address to access the Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit. There was an error trying to submit your form. Please try again. Email * This field is required. Sign
- [Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit](https://airssedu.org/cte/marketing-toolkit-open/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit The Rural IL CTE Project team has put together this page to help you get started with marketing your CTE program. Please start with the “Why Marketing
- [Webinar Recordings](https://airssedu.org/cte/webinars/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council Webinar Recordings As part of our goal to provide technical assistance to rural and small schools for their CTE programming, AIRSS partners with CTE-focused organizations to provide an educational webinar series.
- [Am I Rural?](https://airssedu.org/rural-definition/) - The Rural Definition As of May 13, 2026, the REAC-proposed definition of “rural” was adopted by the Illinois State Board of Education. The following criteria for the Illinois definition of “rural” were recommended to the Rural Education Advisory Council, who in turn advanced their approval to the Illinois State Superintendent of Schools:District NCES Locale Code
- [Leadership](https://airssedu.org/leadership/) - Dr. Chris JanssenPresident and Area 3 Dr. Janssen grew up in northwestern Illinois in a small rural school very similar to Spoon River Valley. He was an Agriculture teacher before entering into school administration. He has been a school administrator for over 15 years. Dr. Janssen has been a constant supporter of small rural schools
- [REAP Funding](https://airssedu.org/reap/) - The Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP) provides funding support for rural and small schools. This page includes general information from the U.S. Department of Education about the program, definitions of terms used in the program, and eligibility requirements. General Information The REAP program was created and began providing funds to rural schools through the Elementary
- [About](https://airssedu.org/about/) - The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) is the ONLY statewide education association that is focused on policy and advocacy for Illinois rural and small schools. AIRSS is the state affiliate of the National Rural Education Association (NREA) and we work collaboratively on issues of national, state and local concerns that impact our
- [News](https://airssedu.org/blog/) - Place, Race, and Resource Gaps: Evaluating Socioeconomic Disparities and Equity in Rural Illinois CTEKarli StromJune 29, 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) has long been promoted as a pathway to workforce readiness, economic mobility, and postsecondary success. For many students, particularly those [...]Read More Response: ISBE’s 2026 Teacher Vacancy ReportJohn GlasgowJune 19, 2026 While the
- [Rural IL CTE Project](https://airssedu.org/cte/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council Overview The Rural IL CTE Project is a collaborative effort between the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools and the Illinois State Board of Education to support rural and small
- [CTE Resources](https://airssedu.org/cte/resources/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council Rural CTE Resource Database The Rural CTE Resource Database compiles tools, tips, and assistance into one, easy-to-use and understand source. This database is intended for any CTE educator, school administrator, and
- [Contact](https://airssedu.org/contact/) - Mailing AddressThe Association of Illinois Rural and Small SchoolsAttn: School of EducationHorrabin Hall Room 115Macomb, IL 61455General InquiriesHailey Winkleman, Director of Communicationsinfo@airssedu.orgRural IL CTE ProjectJohn Glasgow, Program Directorjohn@airssedu.orgCTE Education Career Pathway GrantLisa Litchfield, Program Directorllitchfield@roe26.net
- [Rural IL CTE Advisory Council](https://airssedu.org/cte/council/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council Rural IL CTE Advisory Council The Rural IL CTE Advisory Council is a high-level group of CTE educators, rural school administrators, nonprofit advocates, national experts, and industry partners. Together with the
- [Rural CTE Research Reports](https://airssedu.org/cte/research/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council 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
- [The Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/cte/pca/) - Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council The Prairie Career Advocate The AIRSS team is proud to present our digital publication, The Prairie Career Advocate. This storytelling effort is part of the Rural IL CTE Project that AIRSS and the Illinois
- [Rural Teacher Corps](https://airssedu.org/rtc/) - The new Rural Teacher Corps: An Illinois Initiative grew out of the nationally recognized Ozarks Teacher Corps, a program dedicated to the recruitment, preparation and placement of outstanding rural teacher-leaders. The Ozarks Teacher Corps (OTC) is a collaborative effort with funding and administrative support from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, and participating students enrolled
- [Seymour Center for Rural Education](https://airssedu.org/seymour-cre/) - Honoring its roots as a normal, or teaching, school, Western Illinois University established the Arlington & Arlene Seymour Center for Rural Education for Advocacy, Policy, and Research. The Center for Rural Education (CRE) provides a unique opportunity to serve an area of education far too long overlooked: rural educational settings, which have all too often
- [Conference](https://airssedu.org/conference/) - Our inaugural conference – the first conference focused on rural education in Illinois – was held on April 17, 2026 at Richland Community College.Following the theme of “Exploring Student Career Pathways,” our first conference explored the changing technologies such as AI and innovations in agriculture; student career pathways and CTE programming in rural schools; and
- [Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year Program](https://airssedu.org/rtoy/) - The 2026 Nomination Form is Closed. Meet the 2026 Teachers of Distinction About the Award The Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year Program was started by AIRSS in 2025 to recognize and highlight the amazing work being done by rural educators in our state. The selection committee narrows down applicants to a handful of Teachers of
- [SB1787 - Rural Education Advisory Council](https://airssedu.org/reac/) - Short Description: SCH CD-RURAL ED ADVIS COUNCILSynopsis As IntroducedAmends the School Code to create the Rural Education Advisory Council. Provides that the purpose of the council is to exchange thoughtful dialogue concerning the needs, challenges, and opportunities of rural districts and to provide policy recommendations to the State. Sets forth the functions and membership of
- [Membership](https://airssedu.org/join-airss/) - Why Support AIRSS? AIRSS is the statewide voice for Illinois rural and small schoolsAIRSS is the rural advocate for its members on both state and federal education policy and legislationAIRSS was the driving force behind the legislation that cemented the Rural Education Advisory Council (REAC) within the IL. State Board of Education. REAC Meets regularly
- [Rural Advantage](https://airssedu.org/rural-schools-trust/) - Rural school districts are as diverse as the communities they serve and the students they educate. Their unique histories, cultures, and landscapes result in community-based schools that defy categorization. Still, there are common themes:Rural schools are community hubs and bring people together.Rural schools encourage student participation and ownership.Rural schools serve as cultural centers for the
- [Bylaws](https://airssedu.org/bylaws/) - Excerpt from the AIRSS by-laws regarding the governance structure of our leadership including officers and board members.ARTICLE VIOrganizational Structure and ElectionsSection 1: OFFICERS—The officers of the Association shall be the President, President-Elect, and Secretary-Treasurer.Section 2: DUTIES OF OFFICERS—The duties of the officers shall be as follows:The President shall preside at all meeting of the Association
- [Advocacy](https://airssedu.org/advocacy/) - Advocacy for our small town and country schools continues to ground AIRSS. Over the years, we’ve been able to grow the strength and impact of this advocacy as we elevate your voices and perspectives to public officials, colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, and all others who strive to support the needs of rural and small
- [Growing Rural IL Success through CTE Programs](https://airssedu.org/cte/2024-report/) - Rural IL CTE Project Menu CTE Portal Home Resources CTE Resource Database Rural CTE Marketing Toolkit Webinar Recordings The Prairie Career Advocate Rural CTE Research Reports Advisory Council 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

## 3D FlipBook

- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Fulton High School](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-prairie-career-advocate-fulton-high-school/)
- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Effingham](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/pca-effingham/)
- [The Sites and Styles of Rural Career Education](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-sites-and-styles-of-rural-career-education/)
- [Prairie Career Advocate 6: Bureau Valley](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/prairie-career-advocate-6-bureau-valley/)
- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Stillman Valley](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-prairie-career-advocate-stillman-valley/)
- [We Are Here! 2025 Annual Report](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/we-are-here-2025-annual-report/)
- [Aligning Assets & Action for Rural CTE Success](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/aligning-assets-action-for-rural-cte-success/)
- [Economic Impact of Rural CTE](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/economic-impact-of-rural-cte/)
- [EBF and Rural School Funding Equity](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/ebf-and-rural-school-funding-equity/)
- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Flora](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-prairie-career-advocate-flora/)
- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Bunker Hill](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-prairie-career-advocate-bunker-hill/)
- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Reed-Custer](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-prairie-career-advocate-reed-custer/)
- [2024 AIRSS Annual Report](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/2024-airss-annual-report/)
- [The Prairie Career Advocate: Geneseo, IL](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/the-prairie-career-advocate-geneseo-il/)
- [Growing Rural IL Success through CTE Programs](https://airssedu.org/post/3d-flip-book/growing-rural-il-success-through-cte-programs/)

## Elementor Header & Footer Builder

- [Partners](https://airssedu.org/post/elementor-hf/partners-archive/) - Missing from the list? Contact us today to renew your partnership!
- [Partners - Updated](https://airssedu.org/post/elementor-hf/partners-2026/) - Missing from the list? Contact us today to renew your partnership!

## Categories

- [AIRSS News](https://airssedu.org/post/category/news/)
- [Shared With Us](https://airssedu.org/post/category/shared/)
- [Rural Education Advisory Council](https://airssedu.org/post/category/reac/)
- [Career and Technical Education](https://airssedu.org/post/category/cte/)
- [Opportunities](https://airssedu.org/post/category/opps/)
- [Rural Infrastructure Series](https://airssedu.org/post/category/opterra-series/)
- [Prairie Career Advocate](https://airssedu.org/post/category/pca/)
- [OPTERRA Spotlights](https://airssedu.org/post/category/opterra-spotlights/)