Two non-profit organizations partnered to highlight teacher preparation for rural public schools. The new documentary, Heartbeat of the Community: Recruiting and Retaining Teachers in Rural Schools preimeres Thursday, Dec. 5.
Officials said rural schools are more likely to have challenges finding and keeping teachers than their suburban counterparts.
Sarah Rand, a spokesperson for the organization who co-produced the film, said the greatest teacher shortages can be found in northwest Michigan and the upper peninsula.
"We wanted to just highlight that and bring attention to that and through the documentary provide examples of creative and innovative things to make sure that rural districts get the staff and keep the staff that they need," Rand said.
Rand said the documentary is for policymakers and educators across the state.
Speakers at the film premiere include:
- Jillian Davidson, PhD, Director of Clinical Experiences, Central Michigan University
- Jennifer Robel, Department Manager, Office of Educator Excellence, Michigan Department of Education
- Katherine Bertolini, PhD, Superintendent, Maple Valley School District
- Heath Nestle, Teacher, Shepherd Public Schools
- Dee Yarger, PhD, Principal, Farwell Public Schools
For more information about the event click here.