Aaron ’ s research project abstract :
For years , educational researchers have long overlooked rural schools even though one-third of America ’ s public schools are defined as rural , and those rural schools serve approximately one-fifth of America ’ s students . In discussions of rurality , many associate rural with “ white ” despite the reality that racial and ethnic diversity has been increasing across rural America . The common association between rurality and whiteness has created a scenario in which non-white individuals are automatically “ othered .” It has created and perpetuated the idea that race does not matter in rural areas . Yet , as the racial and ethnic demographics continue to increase , it is important to think about how the construction of whiteness and race shapes the lives and educational experiences of students of color in rural , predominantly white schools . Specifically , it is important to think about how whiteness functions and is shaped within rural schools and communities in contrast to Blackness . This impacts Black students navigating rural , predominantly white schools in states with high white populations , such as in the Midwest . We review the current literature on this topic by analyzing key themes :
• African Americans in predominantly white schools
• African Americans in rural schools
• African Americans in the Midwest
• Whiteness , rurality , and the politics of the Midwest
• White supremacy , racism , and microaggressions
Lastly , we finish by summarizing future areas of inquiry intended to expand scholarship analyzing Black experiences in predominantly rural schools .
Aaron Kinard , Undergraduate Research Award Winner
enough attention when looking at issues of race . The north doesn ’ t either . We chalk it up to being only a southern issue ,” Aaron noted in his presentation . “ I want to continue looking at the Midwest .” He will have the opportunity to continue his research while pursuing a PhD in sociology at the University of Virginia next year .
The Ronald E . McNair Scholars program funded Aaron ’ s research study . He was mentored by Dr . Linn Posey-Maddox and Dr . Walter Stern of the
Department of Educational Policy Studies at the University of Wisconsin – Madison . In addition to meeting with members of the selection committee for regular check-ins , Aaron consulted several UW librarians and archivists , including
Tom Durkin ( Social Science ), and
Troy Reeves ( Oral History ). Aaron gave a heartfelt thanks to all his mentors and the Undergraduate Research Award Team , who , as he notes , “ were so incredibly supportive of my research throughout this challenging year . I cannot thank you enough .”
For more information on the Undergraduate Research Award , visit the
website .
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