Summary: Join Dr. Jim Lack and Chris Rogne, superintendent of Lake Mills, Iowa Community School District, as they dive into the challenge of fostering growth in rural K-12 schools. Chris shares strategies for embedding professional development and creating effective PLCs tailored to small districts. Discover how Lake Mills overcame constraints to promote culture and growth opportunities, ensuring high expectations and positive relationships within its tight-knit community. This conversation offers valuable insights for leaders seeking to enhance educator retention and development amidst unique challenges. Key Takeaways: The significance of cultivating professional growth in rural K-12 districts to boost retention and employee engagement.Creative restructuring of PLCs and professional development programs to be more relevant and effective in small districts.The impact of high expectations, positive culture, and system-wide coherence on educational success and staff satisfaction.The crucial role of principals as drivers of educator growth and how supportive leadership fosters an empowering workplace.Engagement and feedback mechanisms as tools for ongoing improvement and adaptation in educational practices. Chapters: 00:00 Embedding Growth Opportunities in Rural K-12 School Districts 02:28 Coaching and Teaching Experiences Shape Leadership Philosophy 05:48 Leadership Development and Growth in Rural School Districts 10:01 Adapting Professional Development for Small Rural School Districts 16:51 Building School Culture Through Feedback and Leadership 22:59 Building Positive Culture and Growth in Rural School Districts Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung Connect with Chris Rogne: https://www.lake-mills.k12.ia.us/ Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda  Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future. Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe