Paving Roads to Success

Removing roadblocks.
Making rural practicum placements possible for tomorrow's teachers.

In their final year, student teachers are eager to gain hands-on experience and forge meaningful connections through classroom practicums. Rural placements, in particular, offer some of the most enriching opportunities for professional growth. Unfortunately, the rising costs of travel and living create significant financial barriers, preventing many from fully embracing these life-changing experiences.

As a result, these future educators are faced with a difficult decision: either turn down these valuable opportunities or struggle with the financial and personal stress that affects their education and well-being. This leads to fewer students being able to engage with or commit to rural placements.

The effects extend beyond the students themselves. Rural schools rely on these placements to build lasting connections and recruit future teachers, but are now finding it harder to fill teaching vacancies. The future of education in Alberta depends on making these opportunities more accessible and impactful, ensuring that rural communities can continue to thrive and attract the dedicated educators they need.

of student teachers in rural placements are left struggling to cover additional essential costs like travel and living expenses.

of students have reported that growing financial obligations have affected their grades.

projected decline in Alberta teachers in the next three years, with rural communities expected to feel the greatest impact.

Alumni leading the way

With your support, we aim to provide $1,000 to ULethbridge Faculty of Education students completing rural placements. No student teacher should be held back by financial barriers that prevent them from contributing to Alberta's educational future.

Under the leadership of alumni Dr. Bernadine (BEd '88, LLD '25) and Dr. Toby (BEd '89, MEd '04, LLD '25) Boulet, the Paving Roads to Success campaign seeks to raise $75,000 to establish an endowed fund that will provide ongoing support each year.

With the exciting opportunity to have all donations matched, now is the perfect time to give generously and make a meaningful impact.

Supporting tomorrow's teachers starts with you

We understand that support looks different for everyone. That's why every contribution, big or small, makes a meaningful difference.

$25 a month, or $300 a year, covers about 4.5 full tanks of gas for a student placed in a rural school.

$50 a month, or $600 a year, covers approximately 2.5 months of groceries for a single student teacher.

For $100 a month, or $1,200 a year, you can help cover the costs of additional living expenses.

Making a donation has never been easier. With flexible options to give—whether monthly, scheduled, or as a one-time gift—your support creates a lasting impact.

And remember, every donation is matched—doubling the impact of your gift!

Faculty of Education