Central Illinois Rural Teacher Corp Fund - New Teacher Grants

The Central Illinois Rural Teacher Corps Fund – New Teacher Grants support the early career development of educators teaching in southeastern Illinois. With growing concerns over teacher shortages in rural areas, particularly in STEM and special education, the fund aims to strengthen the teacher pipeline and retain talent in small-town communities. These communities rely heavily on the strength of their local school systems, and this grant serves as a direct investment in the sustainability of rural education. This program is part of the broader Rural Teacher Corps initiative, which engages future educators in high school, community college, and at Eastern Illinois University (EIU). The initiative emphasizes rural identity, leadership, community engagement, and collaboration. It prepares educators to address economic, environmental, and social justice issues in rural settings, equipping them to be communicative, network-savvy, and catalysts for local change. The 2025 grant cycle will provide five $200 awards to first- or second-year teachers working in K–12 public schools located in the southeastern Illinois counties of Effingham, Coles, Clark, Cumberland, Crawford, Shelby, Fayette, Jasper, Richland, Lawrence, and Clay. Eligible recipients must currently be employed in one of these counties and be within the first two years of their teaching career. The application period opens on August 5, 2025, and closes on September 16, 2025. Grants are competitive and targeted toward individuals who embody the values of the Rural Teacher Corps—namely a strong sense of mission and a commitment to rural schools and communities. Funds may be used for classroom supplies, instructional materials, or professional development expenses. While the monetary amount is modest, the recognition and targeted support for new educators are central to the program’s long-term strategy for addressing rural teacher retention and capacity. Interested applicants should submit their materials by the published deadline. Additional information about the Rural Teacher Corps and its affiliated programs is available through regional educational support networks and participating school districts.

Highlight community leadership, commitment to rural schools, and readiness to be a long-term contributor to the region. Demonstrate connection to the Rural Teacher Corps values.