In many rural communities, schools are more than just places of learning—they’re lifelines. Yet, limited resources, teacher shortages and restricted access to advanced coursework often hold students back. But across the country, schools are proving that these challenges aren’t roadblocks—they’re opportunities for innovative partnerships.
How schools are turning partnerships into success:
- Workforce development initiatives: Connecting students with internships, apprenticeships and hands-on career training.
- Higher education collaborations: Creating pathways for students to earn college credits while still in high school.
- Local business support: Providing funding, expertise and hands-on learning opportunities.
- Community-based programs: Expanding enrichment activities and support networks for students and families.
Partnerships with purpose in rural education
Rural schools can’t go it alone. Building collaborative partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits and higher education institutions has become essential—not only for expanding learning opportunities but also for strengthening the economic and social fabric of rural communities.
These partnerships go far beyond guest speakers and field trips. Schools are now co-locating businesses right on their campuses, integrating industry-aligned certifications and creating paid internships that give students direct exposure to in-demand careers. It’s rural innovation in action, and it’s transforming the relationship between education and the local ecosystem.
Turning local challenges into opportunities
Rural areas often face unique challenges—from workforce shortages to geographic isolation. But those same challenges can become springboards for impactful change. In places like Roscoe, Texas, and Miami, Arizona, school leaders have turned to community members and industry partners to co-design solutions that work for students and the broader economy.
Roscoe Collegiate Independent School District, for example, partnered with local veterinarians to open a clinic inside the high school. The result? Students now gain hands-on experience in animal science, while the community benefits from essential services. It’s a win-win that opens career pathways and builds local capacity at the same time.
Co-locate, collaborate and credential
One powerful approach to building partnerships is to rethink how school facilities are used. Underutilized spaces can become training grounds for credential programs or incubators for local businesses. In Colorado City, Texas, HVAC company Trane partnered with the school district to create a sustainable energy lab focused on smart HVAC technologies and sustainability—offering students skills aligned with high-demand, high-wage careers.
These types of arrangements require clear agreements, shared goals and a focus on student success. But when done right, they transform schools into interactive hubs where education, workforce development and economic development intersect.
Paid internships that empower students
In addition to in-school programs, many rural school districts are working with partners to create paid internships and apprenticeships—giving students the chance to learn on the job, earn income and develop workplace skills before they graduate. Whether it’s IT support, sustainable agriculture or cybersecurity, internships help students apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Rachel McClain, President of Collegiate Edu- Nation (CEN), notes industry-aligned programs aren’t just good for students—they also strengthen the local labor market. With the right partnerships, students can graduate with credentials that lead to immediate employment or further higher education options—all while staying rooted in their local communities.
Expand instead of contract
According to research from Burtis & Goulas, between 2015-16 and 2018-19, the percentage of rural elementary schools with enrollment declines greater than 20% more than doubled (up from 5% to 11%). When budgets are tight and enrollment is down, it’s tempting for districts to scale back. But leaders like Superintendent Dr. Eric Holmes of Sierra Vista Unified School District in Arizona are choosing to do the opposite—expanding learning options through innovative partnerships with ASU Prep Global and others.
Rather than retreating, they’re reimagining education through hybrid models, flexible schedules and community-driven initiatives that offer equitable access to high-quality experiences.
These models aren’t just about retaining students; they inspire students to give back. As more rural students graduate with relevant skills and credentials, they choose to return home, invest in their communities and become part of a new generation of rural changemakers.
Let’s create a successful partnership
Navigating the evolving landscape of rural education requires creative solutions. ASU Prep Global is here to help individual schools, school districts and rural leaders unlock new pathways for student success. We provide a comprehensive range of services, from K–12 digital course licensing and robust learning management systems to tailored teacher training and ongoing tech support—ensuring your educational goals and unique challenges are met with precision.
Teachers will always be critical to a child’s learning success, so we empower them with training to help students thrive in today’s dynamic, flexible and tech-supported classrooms. Through practical sessions on integrating emerging technologies and maintaining academic integrity, we equip teachers to lead and inspire students as agents in their own learning journeys.
In partnership with K–12 schools, ASU Prep Global is pioneering educational models that give students early access to college-level coursework and state-of-the-art digital learning experiences. Beyond being a curriculum provider, we are a committed school design partner, working closely with leaders to deliver high-quality, impactful learning models that open doors for all learners.
Our passion is rooted in partnerships with educational leaders to create unbound learning environments. We leverage Arizona State University’s cutting-edge research, together with best practices derived from both research and from our own network of schools to drive success in rural school systems and underserved communities.
Learn how to build these partnerships
Your school doesn’t have to tackle challenges alone. Download our full white paper: “Redesigning Rural: Building New Learning Models Through Edu-Preneurial Strategies” for:
- Proven strategies to establish long-lasting, impactful collaborations
- Real-world success stories from rural schools making a difference
- Actionable steps for engaging businesses, colleges and organizations to support education
Start building the partnerships that will shape the future of rural education.
You may also be interested in reading:
Understanding Rural Students and Communities to Build Stronger Schools
Competing for Students: How Rural Schools Can Innovate and Stay Relevant
Bringing Learning Beyond the Classroom and Into the Real World