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Published: December 2, 2021
More than 7 million students are enrolled in rural school districts; an additional 2.5 million attend rural schools in districts that are not designated “rural” by the Census Bureau.
While federal laws such as the Secure Rural Schools program and the Rural Education Achievement Program provide critical support for many of the more than 7,700 rural school districts, these programs must be improved.
Policy makers should do more to ensure that all students in rural communities realize their basic right to a great public education.
Bills in Congress
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Support
HR 5030 Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023 www.congress.gov
Introduced on July 27, 2023
A bill that will help provide funding for public schools, libraries, and other public services in rural areas, improving life for students and families.
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Support
S 2581 Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023 www.congress.gov
Introduced on July 27, 2023
A bill that willl help provide funding for public schools, libraries, and other public services in rural areas, improving life for students and families.
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Support
S 3706 Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on February 17, 2022
A bill to ensures that important changes from the extension of the SRS act (changes that were part of last year’s bipartisan infrastructure bill) are implemented.
Letters & Testimony
NEA speaks up for the rights of students. Browse recent messages to Congressional leadership, and add your voice.
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House lame-duck priorities
Submitted on November 12, 2024
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Senate lame-duck priorities
Submitted on November 12, 2024
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Vote YES on Extending Law to Fund Rural Schools
Submitted on November 15, 2023
We're speaking up for our students and public schools. Visit our Action Center to find out what you can do.
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