East Tennessee State University introduces new Center for Rural Education and Development

East Tennessee State University has introduced its new Center for Rural Education and Development, which seeks to help the Southern Appalachian region thrive in education and in the workforce. The new center will provide more opportunities for growth and support students throughout their K-12 education.

According to an article on East Tennessee State University’s website, Dr. Dawn Rowe, who is a professor in the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development and is the James H. Quillen Chair of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, explained how the Center for Rural Education and Development is taking a fresh approach to its goals. She is quoted as saying, “Too often, rural communities are viewed through a lens of deficiency – what they lack, rather than what they offer. We are shifting that narrative by leveraging the existing strengths and cultural capital of these communities to drive meaningful, long-term impact in education.” 

The Center for Rural Education and Development will focus on several key initiatives as it begins operations. Among them are a planned teacher education pipeline to help alleviate teacher shortages in rural schools, new dual enrollment and workforce development programs, rural student leadership development, and community partnerships and collaborations to elevate both education and the workforce.

The Center will work with several existing community organizations and initiatives, as well, including the Rural Initiative for Talented Educators, Resilient Schools Project, and EdWorks Northeast Tennessee, all of which are focused on improving teacher education and local schools.

Dr. Janna Scarborough, the dean of the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development, said, “Our goal is not just to study rural education but to co-create actionable strategies that directly benefit students, educators and local economies. By partnering with schools, policymakers and community organizations, we can provide research-backed, community-driven solutions that address key issues such as teacher shortages, economic development and access to postsecondary education.” 

For more information about East Tennessee State University, visit the school’s website.