Melissa Sadorf and Derek Cantrell: How to Lead in Rural Schools

Rural schools educate nearly one-third of America's public school students, yet they are often underrepresented in national conversations about education policy, innovation, and school improvement.In this episode of Have a Life Teaching, Dr. John Schembari is joined by Dr. Melissa Sadorf, Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association and author of The Resilient Rural Leader, along with Derek Cantrell, principal of Alleghany Highlands High School and author of Better Together: Two Communities, One School.Together, they explore the strengths, challenges, and opportunities facing rural schools today.Topics include:• Teacher recruitment and retention in rural communities• School consolidation and community identity• Grow-your-own teacher programs• Partnerships with community colleges, businesses, and local organizations• Broadband access and educational equity• AI and technology as tools to expand opportunity• What urban and suburban schools can learn from rural schools• Why relationships remain the foundation of effective leadershipThe conversation highlights an important reality: rural education is not a deficit story. It is a story of resilience, innovation, community partnership, and leaders who consistently find ways to create opportunities for students despite limited resources.Whether you work in a rural, suburban, or urban setting, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, trust, community engagement, and the future of education.Melissa Sadorf LinkedIn Derek Cantrell LinkedIn The Resilient Rural Leader Book Better Together BookNational Rural Education Association Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.