ORCID
Jenna Spiering https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8260-3638
Abstract
This article explores the importance of incorporating diverse rural short stories into English language arts (ELA) curricula to foster empathy, understanding, and connection among students. It addresses underrepresentation and lack of variety in rural stories within publishing and traditional curricula, which affects rural students’ sense of identity and belonging. Through exploration of rural short story anthologies, the authors highlight the significance of counterstories that depict the intersectional dimensions of rural life, including geography, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and abilities. By amplifying contemporary rural voices and complicating stereotypes, educators can create more inclusive learning environments that validate diverse experiences.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Gargano-Smith, B.,
&
Spiering, J.
(2025).
Redefining Rural Representation in Short Story Anthologies: Using Short Stories to Highlight Rural Counterstories.
The Rural Educator, 46(3), 93-99.
https://doi.org/10.55533/2643-9662.1498
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Language and Literacy Education Commons, Library and Information Science Commons, Secondary Education Commons
