The purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance to rural districts to assist them in meeting their state's definition of adequate yearly progress (AYP). Applicants do not compete but rather are entitled to funds if they meet basic eligibility requirements. Eligibility is restricted by statute.
Awards are issued annually to SEAs, which make subgrants to LEAs that meet the applicable requirements. Awards are made to all SEAs that apply and meet the applicable requirements of the act (see legislative citation above). If an SEA does not participate, awards are issued by the Department to eligible LEAs in the state either competitively or by formula.
Types of Projects
Recipients may use program funds to conduct the following activities:
- Teacher recruitment and retention, including the use of signing bonuses and other financial incentives;
- Teacher professional development, including programs that train teachers to use technology to improve teaching and that train teachers of students with special needs;
- Support for educational technology, including software and hardware, that meets the requirements of ESEA, Title II, Part D (Enhancing Education Through Technology; # 84.318);
- Parental involvement activities;
- Activities authorized under the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities: State Grants program (ESEA, Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1; # 84.186A);
- Activities authorized under ESEA, Title I, Part A (Improving Basic Programs Operated by LEAs; # 84.010); or
- Activities authorized under ESEA, Title III (Language Instruction for Limited English Proficient and Immigrant Students).
Rural and Low Income School Guidance
Memorandum to BIE Operated Schools June 28, 2013-Title VI, Part B, Subpart 2, Rural and Low Income Program Funds
