Webconference on the Changing Context of Rural Schools

On November 19, 2008 Edvantia will he hosting a webconference titled Cultivating Success: The Changing Context of Rural Education. The webconference runs from 2 pm - 3 pm est. I believe it's free but you do have to register to participate. From the description it looks to be an excellent program:

Rural schools and districts are changing. Student enrollment in small rural communities increased by 15% between 2003 and 2005, and rural students now make up 20% of the total student population. The percentage of rural minority students has grown dramatically, such that nearly half of all English language learners (ELL) live in rural places. But despite the advantages rural schools offer—meaningful family engagement, community support, and close-knit relationships—they continue to struggle with resource constraints, recruitment and retention of high-quality teachers, and implementation of robust ELL programs. Tune in to “Cultivating Success: The Changing Context of Rural Education,” the first in a series of three webinars sponsored by the Appalachia Regional Comprehensive Center (ARCC) that explore how states and districts can help rural schools meet their changing needs. Our presenters will be Marjorie Rosenberg, Senior Research Associate for CEEE, Maria Helena Malagon, Senior Research Associate for CEEE, and Donna Bell, Senior Program Manager for NCFL. This event is hosted by Caitlin Howley, Associate Director, ARCC at Edvantia and Donna Carr, No Child Left Behind/Title I Specialist, ARCC at Edvantia.