Education instructor Meg Robbins recently appeared on the WRAM Morning Show to discuss the Men of Distinction Rural Teacher Pathways Project, a new initiative at Sandburg is designed to help address the ongoing shortage of teachers in rural schools.
Supported by two grants, the Men of Distinction Rural Teacher Pathways project is a cohort-based leadership program that helps young, diverse men explore careers in education, leadership and service. The academic arm of the program works in conjunction with Men of Distinction (MOD), a service leadership student organization at Sandburg.
Sandburg received a grant in 2025 from the Galesburg Community Foundation’s Hunger Collaborative to help launch MOD Rural Teach Pathways. The college also received a $50,000 grant earlier this year from Grow Your Own Illinois — which recruits, supports and prepares individuals from underrepresented communities to become licensed teachers — to provide additional support.
Students in the cohort can explore different career opportunities in the education field and get hands-on experience through volunteer work in area schools. Participants also can receive financial support through mileage reimbursements and food stipends, as well as other areas such as child care or technology needs.
Listen to Meg's interview to learn more about this initiative.