E101 | Bridging the Gap: Improving College Access for Rural Students with Alyssa, Mara & Sabrina

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Rural Scoop, host Melissa talks about an exciting new program that helps rural students go to college and succeed. She is joined by Dr. Mara Tieken, Alyssa Ratledge, and Dr. Sabrina Klein to discuss the IES Research and Development Center in Rural Higher Education. This research center, funded by the government, is the first to focus on helping students in small towns transition from high school to college, graduate, and find good jobs. The guests explain why this research matters, how it can help rural schools and students, and the ways they are collecting information to make sure it really works.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introducing the Guests & Their Work:
• Dr. Mara Tieken (Bates College) researches rural education, school closures, and rural access to higher education.
• Alyssa Ratledge (MDRC) focuses on post-secondary success for rural students and institutions.
• Dr. Sabrina Klein (MDRC) specializes in strengthening the K-12, higher education, and workforce pipeline in rural settings.
• The Significance of the IES Research & Development Center:
• First center focused on high school-to-college transition, college completion, and workforce development in rural areas.
• Emphasizes the unique challenges faced by rural students and institutions.
• Focuses on two specific regions: the Mountain West and the Deep South.
• Engaging Rural Communities in Research:
• The center includes two advisory committees: a research advisory group and a practitioner advisory group.
• Dissemination partners help ensure findings reach policymakers, educators, and rural institutions.
• Research findings will be accessible in practical formats to directly benefit rural educators and decision-makers.
• Common Misconceptions About Rural College Access:
• The myth that rural communities do not value education.
• Economic factors play a significant role in lower college enrollment rates.
• Rural students often face unique logistical and financial challenges in accessing higher education.
• The Underrepresentation of Rural Students in Higher Ed Research:
• Historically, policies have been designed for larger, urban populations.
• Rural colleges and communities often lack the resources to participate in large-scale studies.
• There is a need for research that specifically addresses the distinct challenges and strengths of rural education.
• Mara & Sabrina’s Upcoming Study on Community-Based College Access Organizations:
• Investigating organizations in Oregon and Idaho that support rural students.
• Identifying effective practices that promote college success.
• Findings will highlight how these organizations serve as crucial "bridges" for students.

Closing Summary:

The conversation in this episode is just the beginning of an essential and ongoing discussion about rural higher education. The guests emphasize that research-driven, community-centered approaches are vital to ensuring rural students have the opportunities and support they need to succeed. They also encourage listeners to get involved by sharing their experiences, providing feedback, and staying engaged with the center's work.

How to Get Involved:

• Email [e-mail] to share your thoughts, questions, or experiences.
• Follow upcoming findings from the IES Research and Development Center.
• Attend relevant conferences such as the Rural Summit in Alaska or the NREA Conference.
• Subscribe to The Rural Scoop podcast to stay informed on future discussions.

This episode highlights the importance of rethinking what success looks like for rural students and ensuring that higher education policies reflect the unique needs and aspirations of rural communities. Stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes of The Rural Scoop!