Name: Leading Off the Grid: Innovation and Leadership in Rural Schools
Start: 2025-07-10T13:40:00-0600
End: 2025-07-10T14:40:00-0600

Welcome to URSA 2025 at Park City High School!

Leading Off the Grid: Innovation and Leadership in Rural Schools

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT

Room #231

Leading in a rural or remote school requires creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of community. This session explores the realities of living and working "off the grid"—from navigating staffing challenges and teacher retention to maximizing limited resources through creative scheduling, spending, and space-sharing. Participants will learn how rural principals are building strong support systems through mentorship, district collaboration, and innovative leadership strategies. Discover how cafeterias become cultural centers, gyms serve multiple purposes, and every staff member wears multiple hats. This is real-world leadership in action—rural style—with ideas you can take home, no matter your zip code.

Speakers

Jenna Olson

Principal, Monticello Elementary

Jenna Olson is the principal of Monticello Elementary, where she leads school improvement efforts focused on data-driven instruction and student growth. She has served on district leadership teams, mentored new principals, and is pursuing her EdD in Educational Leadership. Jenna is... Read More →