Season 6, Episode 19: From Business to Rural Education: A Superintendent's Journey The Rural Scoop

Join Melissa as she interviews, Andy Wannemacher, the superintendent of the Aguila Elementary School District, a small rural district in west-central Arizona. Andy shares his journey from a business background to becoming an educator and superintendent in a rural community. He discusses the challenges of rural education, including poverty, English language learners, teacher recruitment, school safety, and limited resources. Andy highlights the importance of building a positive school culture, character education, and using local community assets to enhance educational outcomes. He also emphasizes the advantages of rural education, such as close-knit communities, personalized connections with students and families, and the ability to problem-solve face-to-face. Despite the challenges, Andy's passion for rural education shines through as he reflects on the successes of his school and the joy of watching students grow and thrive.