David Arsen is the lead author of a new report that surveyed 25 rural school superintendents about their most pressing concerns.
The report finds most face economic struggles that limit their ability to invest in educational programs.
Arsen says education officials must focus on initiatives that afford equity and local control to rural communities.
“The state needs to address some areas in which market forces seriously disadvantage rural school districts in broadband access, in hiring teachers and providing skilled mental health professionals.”
Arsen calls the 2023 Michigan education budget “generational,” and “a huge step forward.” He says the state has to be mindful of the link between school investment and community growth.
