Time, money help rural schools tackle teacher shortage

Jun 22, 2023

Finding and keeping top-notch teachers is one of the biggest challenges rural schools face today.

Illinois, Iowa and Missouri each have their own approach to hiring.

“I’ve been in education for 35 years and I’ve never seen a teacher shortage like we have now,” says Jon Turner, an associate professor at Missouri State University in the College of Education. “It’s not just teachers — it's custodians, school nurses, school administers.”

Iowa is funding a “grow your own” approach, targeting people already working in education. Last year, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the Teacher and Para- educator Registered Apprenticeship Grant Program.

It provides $46 million of federal funding to help para-educators, who provide instructional, behavioral, and other support to students, get on-the-job credit while they are taking university classes to get their teaching credentials, says Margaret Buckton, a professional advocate for the Rural School Advocates of Iowa.

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Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.

Time, money help rural schools tackle teacher shortage

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Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

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