We recognize the unique challenges facing schools in rural communities. There will still be regional offices and local decisions will remain local, as they are now. Changes will strengthen the voices of parents, teachers and principals in rural communities. These include supporting School Advisory Councils to advance local priorities; more autonomy and independence for principals; and, for teachers, more influence in developing curriculum, more support in the classroom for teachers and their students from teaching specialists. Dr. Glaze also recommends in her report that the department develop a rural education strategy to better respond to the unique challenges facing schools in rural communities.