Rural Connections Blog

  • Photo of a training class

    Finding What Works for Rural Schools: Lessons from the National Center for Rural Education Research Networks (NCRERN)

    In the wake of the pandemic, students need help, both academically and emotionally, to recover from the disruption and to be set up for success in the future. While the need for support is clear, what to do is not always so obvious. Federal education policy often directs schools to use evidence-based practices to support student success. The dilemma for rural schools is that most education research is conducted in urban and suburban districts, which may not translate to rural contexts.

    • Education
    • Family & Children Services
  • photo of Marines

    VA to host town halls for Veterans, families during ‘PACT Act Week of Action’

    If you were exposed to toxic substances while serving in the military, a new law called the PACT Act may make you eligible for VA benefits and health care. The PACT Act will benefit millions of Veterans of the Vietnam War, Gulf War and post-9/11 eras who were exposed to toxic fumes, burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation and other environmental hazards. Survivors of toxic-exposed-Veterans—and Veterans who served in specific countries in Africa, the Middle East and Southwest Asia—are also potentially eligible.

    • Health Facilities
    • Health Services
  • Rural community member viewing their farm

    Social Security Supports Rural Communities

    Social Security touches the lives of nearly every American. Millions count on us —retirees who worked hard their whole lives, people no longer able to work due to disability, dependents, and survivors. As members of the Rural Partners Network, we want to continue reaching out to rural communities. We make it easy for rural community leaders to help others access our programs and services. Our website offers a convenient way to apply for benefits online.

    • Community Development
    • Economic & Business Development
    • Health Services
  • Participants march past the vehicle maintenance facility carrying simulated wounded personnel

    Caring for the Whole Rural Veteran

    Each of our nation’s Veterans has a story… and their physical health is only one chapter. That’s why VA pursues a personalized Whole Health approach that addresses the full range of factors impacting Veterans’ health, well-being and overall quality of life.

    But for nearly five million Veterans in rural communities, several challenges, such as travel limitations and provider shortages, make it difficult or impossible to access the preventive care crucial for Whole Health.

    • Health Facilities
    • Health Services