The debate over the federal government's role in education has taken center stage in recent months, with many arguing that it is time to "hand education back to the states." While state control may sound appealing to some, this perspective overlooks the crucial role the federal government has played in establishing and protecting a public education system that benefits all students, especially those in rural communities. This policy brief focuses on why the federal government's involvement is particularly important for rural areas like North Dakota. Rural communities are often most vulnerable when federal policies are disregarded or rolled back, particularly when it comes to school choice and funding mechanisms that directly support rural schools. Living and working in North Dakota provides the author with a unique perspective on the challenges that rural communities face. Over the years, he has seen how changes in the state's population and economy have hit rural areas hardest, with many communities losing their schools, businesses, and basic services.