This brief emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique challenges that rural schools in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah face. It draws from the insights of the Rural Educators’ Community of Practice, which highlights the need for genuinely listening to and engaging with rural communities to support their educational needs effectively.

The brief outlines three key actions for state educational agency (SEA) staff:

  • taking the time to listen to rural leaders,
  • examining the effects of policies on rural areas,
  • and fostering meaningful relationships that lead to real change.

By prioritizing these steps, SEA staff can create effective policies that truly benefit rural educators and students.

The brief insists on the inclusion of rural perspectives in policy decisions to ensure that rural schools are not overlooked. Ultimately, it calls for a collaborative policy development process that recognizes the unique aspects of rural education.