Envisioning a Bright Future for Rural Education in Minnesota
At St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN
March 13-14, 2026
Arrival Details
Parking/Arrival: Follow signs to Buntrock Commons. Visitor parking is located at the front of the Buntrock lot, closest to the building. If parking is full, you may park anywhere in the main lot, or any open space. Campus map for more detail.
Check-in opens at 3 p.m. in Buntrock Commons, Crossroads (ground level)
Weather: March in Minnesota is known for its unpredictability. The weekend will be warm, before a quick snowfall starting mid-day Saturday. Monitor for updates.
Talks are open to the public and walk-up registration is allowed.
Background
Working collaboratively with the National Academies, St. Olaf College will host a meeting March 13–14 to envision a bright future for rural education in Minnesota. The meeting will include speakers and panel discussions, as well as ample opportunities for attendees to network and reflect on the report and its recommendations as they relate to their own work. While all individuals with an interest in K-12 STEM education in rural areas are encouraged to attend, the primary audience includes those with responsibility for aspects of rural K-12 education both in and out of schools. We welcome state, district, and local administrators; museum, library, and extension services professionals; out-of-school program directors and educators; rural K-12 teachers; and professionals from rural community colleges and universities.
Schedule of events
The meeting will begin in the afternoon of Friday, March 13, with a keynote address focused on rural education, followed by networking and dinner. On Saturday, March 14, members of the reports authoring committee will provide information and facilitate reflection and conversation about how the reports recommendations can be implemented in a variety of rural settings. Attendees will leave with new colleagues from across Minnesota and ideas for improving rural STEM education and workforce development in their communities.
Travel Information
Please find the link below for Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Northfield reservations. Reservation cutoff date is 3-10-2026.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact:
St. Olaf College Events / events@stolaf.edu / 507-786-3031
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