The UW-Platteville teacher education programs are grounded in a place-based framework with a rural education focus. Place-based education is learner-centered education that connects classrooms to communities. By focusing on the strengths of the local context, particularly rural communities, teachers help students connect classroom lessons to the world around them. This serves to increase student engagement and help students feel supported and challenged in ways that feel meaningful to them.
Average Teacher Education graduates
Annual scholarships
Rural serving teachers
University of Wisconsin Platteville Rural Teacher Corps: Program Essentials
Cohort model
Rural practicum experience
Coursework tailored to rural learning environments
Annual Rural Education Conference and Job Fair
“We model place-based education by connecting our students with classrooms and community partners in our region starting with the Introduction to Education course and continuing through student teaching.”
- Dr. Tim Buttles, Director, School of Education, UW- Platteville
“Working in a rural school district allows for more opportunities for me as a teacher, such as coaching multiple sports and participating in different organizations and committees, while it also provides opportunities for closer relationships with staff and students.”
- Michael F., UW-Plateville Class of 2022 and Fifth Grade Teacher
Featured Stories
What We’re Learning So Far: RSC’s Rural Educator Ecosystem Community of Learners
One year into the Community of Learners Project, participants inspire and uplift Rural Teacher Corps efforts nationwide
Rural Teacher Corps Spotlight: Proud Rural Teacher Initiative at University of Wisconsin-Platteville Supports All Students as Future Rural Teachers
UW-Platteville’s innovative model strengthens the rural teacher pipeline through partnerships, cultural learning, and hands-on community engagement
Rural Educator Ecosystem: Community of Learners Launches at National Summit to Address Educator Shortage in Rural Communities
With generous support from ECMC Foundation and Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies, the initiative kicked off at the Rural Schools Collaborative Hub Summit in Minneapolis
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