Our Mission
Celebrating 10 Years of Rural Schools Collaborative
As we celebrate Rural Schools Collaborative’s 10th anniversary in 2025, we are filled with gratitude for the journey alongside rural educators, students, and advocates. What began as a desire to support rural schools has grown into a national movement, with impact far beyond what we ever could have imagined. At the root of it all are partnerships, collaboration, and a shared unconditional belief in the possibility of rural places.
In 2021, RSC’s founding director, Gary Funk, passed the torch to new leadership. His family created a $50,000 endowment for RSC, signaling a belief that our impact would continue into an unknown future.
In 2024, our Board of Directors made a commitment to match the Funk’s endowment in advance of our 10 Year Anniversary. Through a special campaign honoring our Founding Board members, we exceeded the goal of $100,000 in endowment, affirming yet again that RSC is here to stay.
Thank you to all who have been a part of the first decade of RSC. We are thrilled to celebrate with you!
Careers
We're hiring! Join the RSC Team
Rural Schools Collaborative is seeking a dedicated and passionate rural advocate to join our team as a Project Coordinator!
As the RSC team grows, we're excited to announce an opening for a RSC Managing Director, Rural Teacher Corps - If you are looking for your next adventure in a mission-driven organization, we want to hear from you!
Read the Job PostingTeachers are Heroes!
From now through April 30, you have the chance to show up for educators - Honor a teacher with your gift today!
Who We Are
Rural Schools Collaborative maintains a small, dedicated team to support our Regional Hub Network programs and partnerships.
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RSC Programs
As a collaborative network, the many partners of Rural Schools Collaborative make possible our diverse programs dedicated to building strong and sustainable rural communities.
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Theory of Change
Every rural community needs well-resourced schools, talented educators, peers to support them, and a positive outlook for the future.
Learn MoreRegional Hub Network
Our Regional Hub partners provide RSC with a flexible and cost-effective organizational infrastructure. They are vehicles for authentic place-centered learning, teacher support, and shared reflection.
The latest from our Hubs and Partners:
News and Updates
Strong Relationships, Bright Futures: Humansville (MO) a Natural Fit for GRAD Partnership Rural Cohort
The RSC team recently visited Humansville (MO) School District to learn about how they are fostering student success.
Full Steam Ahead: Fair Play JAG Program Embraces GRAD Partnership
Fair Play School District (MO), one of ten Missouri schools to join the GRAD Partnership in 2024, has found success building student agency through the school’s JAG Program
Building Belonging: How a Rural Missouri Middle School Is Using Beta Club to Boost Connection, Confidence, and Community
Cassville (MO) Schools are focusing on their National Beta club to boost attendance and connection.
Incubating Aspirations Across Maine
The Rural Youth Institute is supporting students throughout rural Maine by supporting youth-serving organizations.