Caring rural teachers are sorely needed in many communities, so how might we support future rural teachers? Our friends at Ohio University are working on just that.
The intentional efforts to recruit, prepare, and retain rural educators, or Rural Teacher Corps, are an important component of supporting and strengthening both rural schools and communities. OHIO University-Eastern, one of RSC’s 2023-24 Catalyst Grant Recipients supported their Rural Teacher Fellows program through to include enhancing Place-Based and experiential learning opportunities in partnership with Building Bridges to Careers.
Learn more about their recent program updates as they kick off a new school year:
Exciting News from the 2024-25 Ohio Rural Teacher Fellowship Orientation!

OHIO Eastern hosted a dynamic kickoff event for the Ohio Rural Teacher Fellowship last week! Returning and new fellows came together for a dynamic orientation, co-designed by Ohio University and BB2C: Building Bridges to Careers.
This year's fellowship is all about empowering rural teachers to drive change by integrating Community and Career Connected Learning (CCCL) into their classrooms and districts. The orientation included important updates on programming, application processes for junior fellows, and seed money opportunities.
Fellows engaged in a productive working session focused on goal setting and connecting with their mentors. By serving as catalysts for collaboration between rural schools and communities, these dedicated educators are working to build a more vibrant and sustainable future for our region.
Ohio University Rural Fellow Spotlight: Leading with Passion, Teaching with Purpose in Rural Schools

Meet Brenen Craig, a senior in the Middle Childhood Education Program at OHIO Eastern and a dedicated Junior Fellow in the Rural Teacher Fellowship!
Dr. Jacqueline Yahn, Program Coordinator and Associate Professor, shares, "Brenen’s enthusiasm for his work with the fellowship builds upon his commitment to our local schools and communities. For this reason, he is held in high regard by our entire fellowship team."
The Rural Teacher Fellowship, co-designed by Ohio University and Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C), empowers early-career teachers in rural districts by connecting them with experienced mentors and fostering Community and Career Connected Learning (CCCL). This initiative supports both teachers and students in building stronger ties to their communities.
We’re proud to see Brenen leading the way in shaping the future of education in our region!
Thanks again to our Catalyst Initiative partners at Ohio University for their continued efforts to support rural education, and Jacqueline Yahn for sharing these program updates