School Year in Review

As we reach the end of the school year, let's reflect on many of the accomplishments we had through the EIU Grow Your Own/Rural School Initiative!

The Rural Teacher Corps (RTC) was active in hosting events and meetings throughout the year. Traveling to school sites such as Jasper, North Clay, Neoga, Villa Grove as well as joining in the Martinsville Education Fair gave students the insight opportunities within our rural school system. Hopefully, sites that were cancelled last spring due to the COVID-19 can be rescheduled.

The EIU Rural School Networking Night in October, 2019 allowed for future teachers to communicate and build relationships with about 20 rural school district representatives. 

Rural School Initiative & EIU Grow Your Own Update

The Mentor and Support Planning Team has been meeting frequently to develop plans to support new and future teachers.

The RTC had ten school districts apply to participate in the  High School RTC which encourages and supports their high schools students choosing to enter into the teaching field. The EIU RTC hopes a kickoff can happen in the fall on EIU's campus. 

Community colleges expressed interest in developing RTC groups on their campus' to support candidates who want to move into potential, off-campus cohorts in the future. Additionally, advisors at all campuses would ensure smooth transfer of courses for students interested in teaching. 

The EIU RTC is planning for more student opportunities this coming Fall. They hope to continue with site visits, professional learning, and school-based projects. Additionally, they plan to organize another Rural School Networking Night in the Spring. 

A focus group with new teachers was hosted to identify supports needed as they move into teaching. Now, a support group has met weekly and will continue over the summer.

Recognizing Rural Teachers

The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) recognized first-year teacher Kylee Payne of Monmouth, IL and how she adapted to COVID-19 pandemic. Read more.

Rural School Collaborative recognized Jordan Bear of Neoga, IL as he describes why teaching in rural communities is an advantage. Read more. 

College of Education Welcomes New Dean

The College of Education welcomes a New Dean, Laretta Henderson starting July 1st. We are excited to work with her and continue to grow the Rural School Initiative. We are planning opportunities to meet with Dr. Henderson in the fall.  Read more.

Upcoming Events

• Fall 2020: Rural Teacher Corps Monthly Meetings-Time TBD​

• Spring 2021: EIU Rural School Networking Night

• Watch for information on RTC's monthly student meetings and other opportunities as EIU's campus begins to open again.