Current Connection 1.1

In a recent article submitted by Education in America entitled "Oregon Works to Improve Rural Schools," Education in America informs us that students going to rural schools in Oregon are being impacted by the scarcity of resources in three ways: 1) educational programs 2) student learning and 3) student opportunities.

Educational programs are lacking because the schools in rural areas are "long distances from school services offices.. schools do not have the access to the support they need in order to effectively provide for students." When the students are lacking in education materials, they are not being taught to the fullest potential. As I am in a public school, in a small county, we normally do not have trouble getting text books and the supplies needed for all of the students.

According to statistics provided by Education in America, "13.2 percent of the population of those rural areas had not completed high school." During this time, approximately 2 months ago, the poverty rate was very high. 18.9 percent of poverty in rural areas compared to 16.8 percent in urban areas, is a big difference. Due to such a high poverty rate, students may have had to drop out of school just to help their parents get by. With all of these students not finishing high school, it effected the student learning.

Rural parts of Oregon have unique obstacles. "Mill jobs in these regions, once readily available and relatively high paying, have dwindled in recent decades," states the text. Seeing how Oregon used to have an ample supply of forest and lumber, it is hard to believe the economy has crippled. With jobs lacking, student opportunities are beginning to dissipate.

When I sit down to watch the new at night, a common theme seems to be that America has a high unemployment rate and limited opportunities for those with little to no educational background.

Oregon's statewide initiative seeks to remedy limited educational programs, student learning, and student opportunity for employment. By improved communication through a network of educational stakeholders and representatives from across the state, they hope to increase student success in these areas.