Michigan Rural Council

Education in rural areas is a multi-faceted issue.  Funding for K-12 schools is determined by using enrollment numbers, putting rural schools at an immediate disadvantage, which can be exacerbated by rural population decreases as a result of high unemployment rates.  Rural areas also struggle to educate and retain college graduates.  Competing in a global economy requires a higher educational achievement than ever before, certainly completion of at least some post-secondary education. Unfortunately, in rural counties, only roughly 20% of the population has a college degree, compared to about 30% in urban counties.

The Michigan Rural Council understands the importance of improving education in small and rural communities.  As such, we advocate for programs and services that will increase preparedness for post-secondary education and prepare students for success in a competitive labor market.

To that end, MRC will:

• Support advocacy efforts to improve schools and quality of education in rural Michigan;
• Advocate for increased access to broadband in rural schools;
• Advocate for sufficient funding for K-12 and post-secondary education to help students in rural communities participate in Michigan’s Transition to a Knowledge-Based Economy; and

Encourage local initiatives that coordinate and consolidate services as deemed necessary to enhance viability and success of school districts located in rural and small communities, while maintaining the integrity of the existing school systems.