The educational reform movement, rural economy, and demographics of rural areas of the United States require, if not mandate, that partnerships be forged in education among and between people in rural areas, urban and suburban areas, states, and the nation to provide quality education for students who will become the leaders of tomorrow. Through task forces, which in most states had rural representation, the number of courses offered to all secondary students and requirements for graduation has increased. Sound educational content must be derived from district goals and expectations, based upon agreement of administrators, teachers, parents, and the community considering state and federal parameters. Local support of education must view education not only in terms of cost but investment. Rural teachers must be recruited and retained and welcomed into the fabric of community life. Demographics should be used to forecast educational needs and outcomes and to reinforce cooperative efforts. Coalitions formed to address these issues can spread the story of rural education and the role it plays in the pursuit of excellence in education. (NEC)