<p>𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:<br>In this inspiring episode, Dr. Melissa Sadorf welcomes Jayme Braida, principal of Columbus Elementary in Southern Iowa and the 2024 Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year. Jayme shares her deeply personal story — from growing up in a small rural community marked by both strong connections and generational trauma, to leading a school that embodies belonging, purpose, and hope.<br>Through authenticity and resilience, Jayme illustrates how intentional leadership, community engagement, and a trauma-informed mindset can transform rural education. From her memoir Seen, Heard, Valued: One Child’s Journey from Overlooked to Outstanding to her advocacy for equity, inclusion, and teacher wellbeing, Jayme reminds us that excellence in rural schools isn’t about resources — it’s about relationships.<br>𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬:<br>00:00 Welcome to The Rural Scoop<br>00:48 Introducing Principal Jayme Braida<br>02:20 Growing Up Rural and Finding Purpose<br>05:12 Overcoming Trauma and Building Resilience<br>08:27 The Teacher Who Believed in Me<br>12:34 Journey from Teacher to Rural Principal<br>15:40 Returning Home to Serve the Community<br>18:02 Balancing Leadership and Small-Town Life<br>20:45 Lessons for New Rural Leaders<br>23:19 The Challenge of Change and Mindset Shifts<br>26:48 Building Equity and Representation in Schools<br>30:07 Addressing Poverty, Trauma, and Resource Gaps<br>33:41 Funding, Policy, and Rural Realities<br>36:10 Family Engagement and School as Community Hub<br>39:28 Creating Positive School Culture with Capturing Kids’ Hearts<br>42:04 Celebrating Teachers and Building Staff Morale<br>44:25 Sharing the Story of Rural Excellence<br>45:42 The Rural Advantage and Closing Reflections<br>𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:<br>Jayme Braida’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership in rural schools is both personal and purposeful. Her journey from a child overcoming adversity to an award-winning principal underscores the power of connection, intentionality, and community pride. As Dr. Sadorf concludes, “The rural advantage isn’t just a phrase — it’s a promise.”</p>