Abstract

This article describes (a) the emergent challenges ofcultural and linguistic diversity in Midwestern rural education and educational policy and (b) a proactive institutional response to these challenges as grounded in responsive, yet responsible, program innovation. Some demographics ofrapidly changing cultural and linguistic diversity among student populations in the rural Heartland are first documented, particularly those relating to English as a Second Language [ESLJ education. Three key challenges confronting rural educators and policy planners in their efforts to address this increasing diversity are then summarized. Briefly, these three challenges of diversity involved geographic isolation, capacity building for diversity, and notable variance in professional development needs among staffs ofthe educational entities to be served by program delivery. This summarization is followed by a detailed discussion of the proactive response ofone institution ofhigher education to each ofthese three challengesfaced by rural educators in the Heartland.

How to Cite:

Murry, K. & Herrera, S., (1998) “Crisis in the Heartland: Addressing Unexpected Challenges in Rural Education”, Journal of Research in Rural Education 14(1), 45–49.

Rights: Copyright