Early county schools were one-room log buildings, with one teacher for all grades. Rural students tended to complete fewer grades and had shorter terms than students in town. This was due in part to community funding problems and the students’ need to work at home and on the farm.

In the 1870s academies were established in Bellefonte, Rally Hill, and Valley Springs. The Harrison College and Normal Institute (a training school for teachers) was later established for females. These schools provided a comprehensive education for those who could afford the fees. Big towns like Harrison built impressive public schools.