Kentucky is grappling with significant challenges affecting its rural students, as unveiled by the recently released ‘Why Rural Matters 2023’ report. The study, which delves into the needs and disparities faced by over 9.5 million students in rural public schools across the nation, emphasizes the urgency of addressing gaps in academic performance and resource allocation.
The findings of the report shed light on disparities in both academic performance and resource allocation in Kentucky’s rural education landscape. Notably, issues such as poverty, education funding, transportation, and access to technology have emerged as key concerns.
Brigitte Blom, President/CEO of the Prichard Committee, emphasized the report’s call to bridge resource and opportunity gaps unique to rural students. She stated, “We must implement solutions that recognize the unique needs of rural communities, ensuring every student in Kentucky has the resources and support needed to thrive.”
One notable challenge highlighted in the report pertains to transportation, with rural communities in Kentucky facing significant hurdles. The report suggests that a considerable portion of rural schools’ budgets must be allocated to transportation, diverting crucial funds away from other essential education needs.
Blom advocated for the legislature to fully fund education transportation, allowing districts to reallocate funds to other educational priorities identified by communities and school boards. She stressed the impact on instruction, noting, “For each dollar our schools spend on transportation, they can only spend about $9 on instruction.”
Moreover, the report draws attention to Kentucky’s limited access to broadband internet, affecting 16.1% of households. This digital divide hampers educational enrichment, communication, and schooling continuity, particularly in areas where transportation challenges intersect with topographical issues.
Rob Stafford, Ed.D., President of the Kentucky Rural Education Association, emphasized the urgency of addressing the report’s findings. “Although great things are happening in our schools, we need to address the factors that are negatively impacting our rural communities and provide more academic and career opportunities for students.”
The ‘Why Rural Matters 2023’ report serves as a call to action, urging policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize the unique needs of rural students, schools, and communities in Kentucky.
