Chippewa Valley Times

Jennifer Sisum, a clinical assistant professor of teacher education, is leading efforts to support rural school districts through the Rural Teacher Initiative. "One of the things we were charged with within the grant was to think about ways we can support the rural school districts in both hiring and maintaining educators within them," Sisum states.

The initiative connects University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire students with surrounding school districts multiple times each academic year. It aims to expose students to the challenges and opportunities in small school districts. Students are divided into groups visiting different locations, including Abbottsford, Edgar, Colby, Greenwood, Independence, Blair-Taylor, Arcadia, and Whitehall.

Participants spend time with professionals in their field of interest. Megan Graupmann, a sophomore majoring in special education and inclusive practices, found her visit insightful. "Now I feel like I might flourish in a smaller school," she comments.

The program encourages students to consider new career paths by exposing them to successful rural teachers. Lane Reetz, a senior elementary education major from a large high school class, experienced something new during his visit. "I’ve never been in a school with K-12 classes, so I was excited to learn about the differences," he shares.

Lexi Schultz, another senior elementary education major who attended a small rural school herself, appreciates the intimate setting's benefits. "For me, a smaller atmosphere is a better environment," Schultz remarks.

The initiative has shown positive results; one previous participant accepted a permanent position at an Edgar school after their immersion experience there.