The Idaho Rural Education Task Force was formed in July 2007 with the goal of proposing and examining solutions to challenges facing rural schools. The task force's work this year has focused on three areas: recruitment and retention of highly qualified teachers, funding shortages related to insurance costs and staff allowances, and the technology…

Maintains that music educators need to become familiar with the budget process in order to act as advocates for their program. Offers several suggestions designed to increase the probability of program requests appropriation. Recommends creating a business plan and encouraging partnerships. (MJP)