For most rural school districts in this country, collaboration is not a choice, it is a necessity. Collaboration elevates the voice of rural districts and empowers isolated educators, administrators, and students. To make 21st century learning a reality for rural students, we must lead together. 

In this spirit, Battelle for Kids and the National Rural Education Association (NREA) will host the 2019 National Forum to Advance Rural Education and 111th NREA Convention and Research Symposium. 

At this annual event, a diverse community of national experts, K–12 and higher education practitioners, leading researchers, policymakers, and philanthropic leaders come together to learn, collaborate, and lead 21st century learning in rural schools. By leading together, we can help communities innovate and leverage local assets to create meaningful learning experiences for rural students. leading researchers, policymakers, and philanthropic leaders come together to learn, collaborate, and lead 21st century learning in rural schools. By leading together, we can help communities innovate and leverage local assets to create meaningful learning experiences for rural students.