This theme issue of Basic Education contains five articles on rural schools. "Small Schools: A Political Irony" (Marty Strange) notes the current enthusiasm among education reformers for small schools and the evidence of their effectiveness. Given this context, the question is posed as to why rural communities where small schools are commonplace have to fight against their consolidation or closing. "Preparing Teachers for Our Nation's Rural Schools" (Paul Theobald) makes the case that rural universities should specialize in rural teacher preparation, since preparing lessons anchored in community circumstances and dilemmas is sophisticated pedagogical work. "The Appalachian Model Teacher Consortium" (Alvin C. Proffit, Paul Sale, Ann E. Alexander, Ruth S. Andrews) describes a Virginia teacher education program that offers credits for certain Grayson County high school courses that are applicable to Wytheville Community College or Radford University. Upon completion of the 3-year program, students are eligible for employment with Grayson County schools. "Accountability and Sustainability: The Dual Challenge of Education in Rural Places" (Doris Terry Williams) discusses place-based education, a curriculum that aims to exceed mandated academic standards while engaging schools and students in community development and meaningful work. Examples are offered from South Dakota and Louisiana. "A New Federal Education Program" (Kari M. Arfstrom) examines a recently reauthorized federal program that will channel federal funds to districts in rural communities with fewer than 600 students and will offer a competitive grant program to low-income rural school districts. (TD)