Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts (GOCSD) is excited to announce a major grant that will expand Real World Learning (RWL) across southern Missouri through a new partnership with Collegiate Edu-Nation (CEN), a Texas-based nonprofit advancing rural education through innovative, college- and career-connected learning grounded in seven essential elements.
This partnership reflects a shared belief: Every student deserves access to meaningful learning that connects the classroom to real-world problems and possibilities, regardless of geography. Building on the momentum of GOCSD’s 12-district Real World Learning Community, the grant will expand opportunities for students to work with business and community partners on authentic challenges while developing the durable skills needed for future success. It will also support GOCSD’s Transformational Teacher program and identify five CEN Focus Schools ready to strengthen classroom instruction while expanding Real World Learning opportunities for students.
👉 Read the Official News Release.
Five CEN Focus Schools: An Opportunity to Lead and Learn
GOCSD and CEN are inviting districts to apply for a unique opportunity to become one of five CEN Focus Schools committed to strengthening Tier 1 instructional practices while expanding Real World Learning opportunities for all students.
Selected districts will receive site-based coaching and support grounded in CEN’s framework to strengthen classroom instruction and connect learning more intentionally to college, careers, and community. The initiative will also explore an important question: Can authentic, real-world learning deepen student understanding while improving math and English language arts achievement?
Districts that participated in the summer information session are encouraged to take the next step, but all GOCSD member districts are welcome and encouraged to apply. A brief application will help GOCSD and CEN identify the districts most ready and motivated to embrace this opportunity.
Help shape the future of learning in southern Missouri. Apply to become one of the five CEN Focus Schools and join a partnership committed to making learning more meaningful, relevant, and impactful for every student.
👉 Learn more and apply to be a CEN Focus School.
Seeking a Director to Lead this Work
CEN and GOCSD are seeking a Missouri educator with leadership experience to help guide and advance the work supported by this grant. This is an exciting opportunity for a retired educator who remains passionate about supporting teachers, empowering students, and shaping the future of learning across our region.
The selected individual will be employed by College-Edu Nation (CEN) while serving as an integral member of the GOCSD team, working collaboratively to strengthen partnerships and expand opportunities for Missouri educators and students.
👉 Interested in making a lasting impact? Explore the position details and submit your application.