Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of rural education in China, highlighting the efforts to ensure equitable and quality education for every rural child, thereby preventing the intergenerational transmission of poverty. It celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Special Post Teacher Program, which has significantly contributed to rural education by providing qualified teachers to underserved areas [1]. Group 1: Special Post Teacher Program - The Special Post Teacher Program has recruited approximately 1.18 million teachers to over 30,000 rural schools across 1,000 counties in 22 provinces since its inception in 2006 [10]. - As of the end of 2024, there are 1.8177 million full-time teachers in rural compulsory education schools in China [11]. - The program has played a crucial role in improving the quality of rural education by increasing the number of qualified teachers and enhancing their capabilities through various training initiatives [13]. Group 2: Teacher Experiences and Contributions - Teachers like Zhao Haolan have shared their personal experiences, illustrating the emotional and professional challenges they face while teaching in remote areas, emphasizing their commitment to their students [10]. - Veteran teachers, such as Liu Yuzhong, have dedicated decades to rural education, demonstrating resilience and a deep sense of responsibility towards their students [11]. - The article highlights the significant impact of teachers on students' lives, with many former students achieving success in various fields, showcasing the long-term benefits of quality education [11]. Group 3: Teacher Training and Development - The "National Training Program" initiated in 2010 has trained over 22.59 million rural teachers and principals, significantly enhancing their professional skills [13]. - The implementation of the "Smart Education Platform" has facilitated ongoing training for teachers, with over 90 million participants benefiting from this initiative [13]. - The educational landscape has seen a marked improvement in the qualifications of rural teachers, with 76.23% holding a bachelor's degree or higher [13]. Group 4: Teacher Welfare and Support - The article notes improvements in the living conditions and compensation for rural teachers, including increased salaries and housing benefits [15][16]. - In 2024, salary supplements for special post teachers will increase by 3,600 yuan per year, benefiting approximately 1.3 million teachers [16]. - Various policies have been implemented to support rural teachers, including a long-term salary guarantee mechanism and professional title reforms [16]. Group 5: Future Initiatives and Aspirations - The "Excellent Teacher Program" aims to train around 10,000 teacher graduates annually for underdeveloped regions, ensuring a steady supply of qualified educators [18][19]. - The article emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in rural education by attracting and retaining talented teachers through targeted training and support initiatives [19]. - Graduates from teacher training programs express a strong commitment to serving in rural areas, aiming to make a positive impact on students' futures [20].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of rural education in providing equitable and quality education to every child in rural areas, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and improve future prospects for these communities [1]. Group 1: Rural Education Initiatives - The Rural Compulsory Education Teacher Special Post Program (Special Post Program) has been implemented for 20 years, successfully placing millions of rural teachers, including special post teachers, in schools across China [1][10]. - Since 2006, the Special Post Program has recruited approximately 1.18 million teachers to serve in over 30,000 rural schools across 22 provinces in central and western China [10]. Group 2: Teacher Experiences and Contributions - Teachers like Zhao Haolan, who have dedicated nearly a decade to rural education, illustrate the deep emotional connections formed with students and the sense of responsibility felt by educators in remote areas [10]. - Liu Yuzhong, a teacher with 40 years of experience, highlights the challenges faced in rural education, including resource scarcity, yet emphasizes the importance of not giving up on any child [11]. Group 3: Teacher Training and Development - The "National Training Program" initiated in 2010 has trained over 22.59 million rural teachers and principals, significantly enhancing their skills and capabilities [13]. - The proportion of teachers with a bachelor's degree or higher in rural areas has reached 76.23%, indicating a substantial improvement in the educational qualifications of rural educators [13]. Group 4: Teacher Support and Incentives - The government has increased financial support for rural teachers, including a salary supplement of 3,600 yuan per year and monthly living allowances for approximately 1.3 million teachers [16]. - Policies have been implemented to improve the living conditions of rural teachers, including the construction of teacher dormitories and various benefits for teachers, such as free admission to national scenic spots [15][16]. Group 5: Future of Rural Education - The "Excellent Teacher Program" aims to cultivate around 10,000 teacher graduates annually for impoverished counties and underdeveloped regions, ensuring a steady supply of quality educators [18][19]. - The article concludes with a commitment from new graduates to dedicate themselves to rural education, reflecting a growing movement towards improving educational outcomes in these areas [20].