Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Rural Scoop, Dr. Melissa Sadorf sits down with Krista Leh, CEO of Resonance Ed and nationally recognized SEL consultant, to explore how social and emotional learning (SEL) can be woven into the daily life of schools—especially in rural communities. Krista shares her journey from high school social studies teacher to SEL leader, her philosophy that SEL is “not a program, it’s who we are,” and practical ways educators can integrate SEL without adding to their workload. From conducting SEL audits to fostering community-driven practices, Krista provides actionable strategies to help educators and leaders support both student and staff wellbeing.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Scoop
01:52 Meet Crystal Lay: From Teacher to CEO
04:24 The Importance of SEL in Education
06:02 Integrating SEL in Schools
10:34 SEL Audits and Coaching in Rural Schools
20:06 Challenges and Strategies for SEL Implementation
22:35 Supporting Educators' Wellbeing
25:07 Fostering Collaboration and Co-Creation
29:58 Advice for Rural Educational Leaders
34:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-leh/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/resonance_ed/
Closing Summary:
This conversation with Krista Leh underscores that SEL is not an “extra” on a teacher’s plate—it’s the plate itself. By integrating social and emotional skills into every aspect of school life, educators can create stronger connections, improve student engagement, and sustain staff wellbeing. Krista’s message is clear: SEL works best when it’s authentic, embedded in daily routines, and reflective of the community’s unique identity. In rural settings, where relationships and community bonds run deep, SEL becomes a powerful tool for building the resilience and agency our students need to thrive.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Rural Scoop, Dr. Melissa Sadorf sits down with Dr. Greg Wyman, superintendent of the J.O. Combs Unified School District and author of the Substack Celebrating Traditional K–12 Public Education. With over four decades of service, Greg shares his leadership journey across Arizona’s rural and suburban schools, the principles that have shaped his career, and his vision for the future of rural education. From building trust in communities to advocating for policy changes, Greg offers practical wisdom for current and aspiring education leaders, while challenging the false narratives that often surround public schools.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:21 Greg Wyman's Career Journey
03:34 Foundations of Leadership
06:31 Building Trust in Rural Communities
09:57 The Hashtag Forward Initiative
13:22 Human-Centered Leadership
16:13 The Importance of Storytelling in Education
20:56 Challenges and Policy Debates in Education
24:42 Staying Informed and Involved
27:48 The Importance of Community and Positivity
28:17 Balancing Accountability and Flexibility in Education
29:21 The Role of Hard Work and Lifelong Learning
32:35 The Value of Relationships in Advocacy
35:27 Building Knowledge and Solutions for Effective Leadership
39:06 Celebrating Wins and Maintaining Positivity
41:43 Mentorship and Succession Planning in Education
43:39 Advice for Aspiring Rural Leaders
46:48 Future of Rural Education: Challenges and Opportunities
50:35 The Rural Advantage: Building Strong Relationships
53:00 Conclusion and Call to Action

Resources:
Substack: wymang.substack.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-wyman-ba114b34/
BlueSky: @greg-wyman.bsky.social
Closing Summary:
Dr. Greg Wyman’s story is one of resilience, relationship-building, and unwavering advocacy for public education. Through decades of service in districts both large and small, he has modeled the power of trust, community engagement, and keeping people at the center of leadership. His insights on policy, storytelling, and the “rural advantage” offer a roadmap for leaders determined to strengthen their schools despite challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned superintendent or an aspiring rural educator, Greg’s message is clear: build relationships, tell your story, and never stop fighting for your community’s children.

Episode Summary:
In this critical episode, Dr. Melissa Sadorf speaks with Jaime Green, a passionate superintendent from Trinity County, California, about the vital importance of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Act. Jaime shares his district’s challenges in the face of expired federal funding, why this legislation is essential for over 4,400 school districts, and how rural communities are mobilizing to push for action.
Through stories of advocacy, community resilience, and calls to lawmakers, this conversation highlights what’s at stake if the SRS Act isn’t renewed—and what rural leaders and listeners can do right now to help.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Scoop
01:00 Meet Jamie Green: Advocate for Rural Education
02:36 The Reality of Trinity Alps Unified School District
05:21 The Secure Rural Schools Act: History and Importance
09:00 Challenges and Advocacy for Funding
15:41 Call to Action: Mobilizing Support
28:56 Conclusion: The Lifeline of Rural Education
Closing Summary:
This episode is a powerful reminder that rural schools—and the children they serve—cannot afford to be forgotten. Jaime Green urges listeners to contact their representatives and demand a vote on the SRS Act. The funding promised in 1908 must be upheld today to keep rural education viable.
Subscribe to The Rural Scoop, share this episode, and help spread the word—because when we advocate

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Rural Scoop, Dr. Melissa Sadorf, Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association (NREA), dives into the impactful work of Wheel Fun, an Arizona-based nonprofit bringing afterschool mountain biking programs to rural schools. Executive Director Evan Puglia and Southeast Regional Manager Emilio Perez share how the program builds confidence, connection, and joy through biking. From humble beginnings to a rapidly growing statewide movement, learn how Wheel Fun is changing lives—one ride at a time.
Whether you're an educator, parent, cyclist, or community leader, this episode showcases how the power of outdoor adventure, mentorship, and inclusive opportunities can uplift underserved students across rural Arizona.

Episode Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Scoop
01:03 Meet the Leaders of Wheel Fun
01:58 Evan Puglia's Journey to Wheel Fun
05:58 Emilio Perez's Background and Passion for Biking
08:54 The Mission and Impact of Wheel Fun
13:03 Challenges and Growth of Wheel Fun
16:24 Starting New Clubs and Community Engagement
20:12 Running a Successful Bike Club
26:21 Typical Season for a Mountain Bike Club
27:42 Impact of Riding on Kids
29:14 Personal Stories of Growth
30:27 Building Social Emotional Skills
32:44 Community Champions and Engagement
35:31 Bike Parks and Their Importance
40:18 Funding and Sustainability
43:37 Future Goals and Expansion
46:03 Getting Involved and Final Thoughts

Closing Summary:
Wheel Fun isn’t just about biking—it’s about building up kids and communities. Through trusted partnerships, dedicated coaches, and generous donors, they’re making sure that every child—no matter how rural their zip code—is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive outdoors.
If you’re inspired by this conversation, visit https://wheelfun.org/ to learn more, donate, volunteer, or start a club in your community. Follow The Rural Scoop on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and connect on social media.

Episode Summary:
In this powerful and timely conversation, Dr. Melissa Sadorf, Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association (NREA), is joined by Leigh Routman, Executive Director of the Holocaust Learning Experience (HLE). Together, they explore how Holocaust education can be a transformative tool for rural and underserved districts—not only fulfilling curriculum mandates but also shaping empathetic, courageous, and socially conscious students. Leigh shares how HLE is bringing high-quality, survivor-centered, and age-appropriate content to classrooms at no cost, and why educators are calling the program a “gift.”
Whether you're an educator, administrator, or community advocate, this episode will leave you inspired by the potential of education to heal hate and foster moral leadership.
Time Codes:
00:00 Introduction to The Rural Scoop
01:20 Introducing Lee Routman and the Holocaust Learning Experience
02:40 Personal Journey into Holocaust Education
04:32 Creation and Impact of the Holocaust Learning Experience
06:00 Program Implementation and Teacher Feedback
12:16 Student Engagement and Outcomes
14:28 Program Expansion and Accessibility
25:07 Teacher Training and Support
31:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Resources:
Holocaust Learning Experience Website: www.holocaustlearningexperience.org
Contact Leigh Routman: lroutman@holocaustlearningexperience.org
Free access for districts: Available nationwide at no cost
Teacher Support: Virtual and on-demand training, LMS tutorials, pacing guides, and multilingual captions
Data-Driven Impact: 90% of students report increased likelihood to stand against hate; 84% report improved empathy
Closing Summary:
The Holocaust Learning Experience goes far beyond historical instruction—it's a catalyst for moral development, empathy, and civic responsibility. As Leigh Routman reminds us, rural educators want to teach meaningful content that empowers students, and HLE delivers that in a ready-to-use, high-quality, and deeply human package. In communities where resources are limited but hearts are big, this program offers a powerful tool for shaping thoughtful, engaged citizens.
To all our listeners: rural leadership means showing up with courage and heart. If today’s episode moved you, consider starting a conversation in your district. Together, we can keep building the kind of education our students deserve.

Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode, returning guest Dr. Mara Tieken joins Dr. Melissa Sadorf to discuss her latest book, Educated Out: How Rural Students Navigate Elite Colleges and What It Costs Them. Dr. Tieken unpacks the layered experiences of nine rural first-generation college students who attended an elite liberal arts institution pseudonymously named Hilltop. Their journeys challenge dominant narratives around college access, success, and belonging—and highlight how geography and rural identity shape and sometimes hinder a student’s path to and through higher education.
From emotional costs and identity struggles to economic barriers and social mobility, this episode provides deep insights for educators, policymakers, and anyone who cares about the future of rural youth.
Highlights & Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to The Rural Scoop
01:12 Guest Introduction: Dr. Mara Tecan
02:26 Dr. Tecan's Personal Journey
05:52 Defining Rural and First Generation
10:05 Challenges of Rural Students in Elite Colleges
12:54 National Interest in Rural College Access
17:52 Barriers to College Participation
24:52 Sense of Belonging and Overcoming Challenges
27:42 High Expectations and Emotional Support from Family
28:56 Rural Environment as a Sanctuary
29:12 Grit and Determination of Rural Students
30:22 The Painful Choice: College or Community
32:37 Caught Between Two Worlds
35:58 The Role of Rural Parents in College Aspirations
41:03 Political and Cultural Isolation on Campus
47:35 College as an Act of Resistance
49:43 Impact and Future Directions for Rural Education
54:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Closing Summary
Dr. Mara Tieken’s research highlights the incredible resilience of rural first-gen students—but also the tremendous cost they bear when navigating elite institutions that often don’t recognize or value their rural identity. Educated Out asks us to rethink what true access and equity mean and calls for systems that allow rural students not just to leave, but to return, contribute, and thrive.
If this episode inspired you, be sure to:
- Read Educated Out
- Share this episode with a colleague or student
- Leave a review and tell us your rural advantage

In this special edition of the ARSA Roundtable, Dr. Melissa Sadorf welcomes Henry Dunkerson, the new interim executive director of the Arizona Rural Schools Association (ARSA). Henry discusses his extensive background in education, his passion for rural schooling, and his plans for ARSA. He shares insights from his career, the importance of strong leadership, and his immediate priorities for the association, including the upcoming 30th annual ARSA conference. Henry emphasizes open communication, the significance of business partnerships, and his dedication to maintaining ARSA's focus on rural education. The episode highlights Henry’s commitment to continuing ARSA's mission and his excitement for the work ahead.
00:00 Welcome to the ARSA Roundtable
00:25 Introducing Henry Dunkerson
01:17 Henry's Journey in Education
03:04 Leadership in Rural Education
04:14 Commitment to Rural Schools
04:57 Excitement for the New Role
05:52 Immediate Priorities and Conference Planning
07:31 Engaging with Stakeholders
08:13 Business Partnerships and Opportunities
09:56 Challenges and Advocacy
11:17 Personal Insights and Final Thoughts
13:36 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Resources & Links
- ARSA Website: azruralschools.org
- 30th Annual ARSA Conference Info & Registration: Conference Page
- Contact Henry Dunkerson: henry@azruralschools.org
- Interested in Sponsoring? Visit the sponsorship page
Closing Summary
Henry Dunkerson brings a strong legacy of service, integrity, and rural roots to his role as ARSA's Interim Executive Director. With a focus on communication, collaboration, and strategic planning, he is poised to continue ARSA’s mission of elevating rural education in Arizona.
Don’t miss your chance to connect with Henry, get involved with ARSA, and join us at this fall’s 30th Annual Conference in Flagstaff!

Episode Summary:
In this powerful and candid conversation, Todd Dugan shares his rural roots and how they shaped his leadership journey—from growing up in a propane-heated home in rural Illinois to leading transformative change in education as superintendent of Bunker Hill CUSD. Todd dives into real solutions for career readiness, equity in rural schools, and the value of place-based learning. Learn how Bunker Hill's CNA pathway and community partnerships earned statewide recognition, and how rural identity can become a powerful lever for student success.
Todd also reflects on national advocacy efforts, including his leadership in the AASA Advancing Rural Education Cohort and his newly elected position on the AASA Governing Board.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to The Rural Scoop Podcast
01:49 Meet Todd Dugan: A Journey in Rural Education
02:42 Challenges and Triumphs in Rural Upbringing
04:26 From Teacher to Superintendent: Career Highlights
08:22 Bunker Hill: A Unique Rural School
14:37 Innovative Programs and Recognitions
21:08 Creating Career-Aligned Opportunities
25:15 Implementing School Links for Post-Secondary Success
31:19 Overcoming Challenges and Changing Mindsets
32:14 Place-Based Education in Rural Schools
35:49 Community Connections and Local Partnerships
43:19 Advancing Rural Education: National Perspectives
52:26 The Rural Advantage and Personal Insights
55:46 The Rural Rundown: Quickfire Questions
59:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Closing Summary:
Todd Dugan’s leadership reflects the transformative potential that emerges when rural schools embrace innovation, honor their roots, and invest in students’ futures. From CNA programs to grade 13 initiatives, his work shows how small towns can become big players in educational equity. With a heart for community and a national voice for rural education, Todd inspires us to dream bigger, act bolder, and lead with purpose.
If this episode moved you, don’t forget to share it with your network and leave a review. Let’s keep building momentum for rural schools and the leaders who serve them.