Pathways to College. The Intersection of Race, Family, and Community on Rural Students College Aspirations.

Abstract

The Intersection of Race, Family, and Community on Rural Students’ College Aspirations, examines the factors shaping rural students' college aspirations, with a focus on racial disparities between white students and students of color. Through a case study of Sadie Foster High School, the research explores how race, family support, and community resources shape students' educational trajectories. Findings reveal that white students often benefit from cultural capital and family advocacy, which help them secure advanced academic opportunities, while students of color face additional barriers, such as limited access to academic guidance and resources. The study underscores the importance of culturally responsive education policies and equitable access to postsecondary preparation in rural schools, which is crucial to improving educational outcomes and fostering equity in college access for all rural students. These insights provide a deeper understanding of how race and community influence the college pathways of rural youth and highlight the need for systemic interventions to address these disparities.