In this inspiring episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with longtime educator and leader Louise Gunning, who has dedicated her career to shaping rural schools and communities in Ontario. From building new schools and leading through delays, to designing online learning during the pandemic, Louise shares her story of resilience, innovation, and heart.

Together, Diana and Louise explore how rural schools are at the heart of their communities—providing not only academics but also wellness programs, food security, and life opportunities for students. Louise also opens up about combining elementary and secondary schools under one roof, the surprising breadth of extracurricular activities available in small communities, and the essential role of parents, businesses, and neighbors in supporting education.

Whether you’re a parent considering a move to the country, an educator facing change, or simply curious about life and learning beyond the city, this conversation will leave you with wisdom, encouragement, and a deeper appreciation for the power of community in education.

Timestamps

00:00 – 02:00 | Introduction

02:30 – 04:30 | Louise reflects on the challenges that shaped her as a leader.

04:30 – 06:30 | Saying “yes” to challenges and encouraging growth outside comfort zones.

06:30 – 08:30 | How rural communities and schools nurture student wellness.

09:00 – 11:30 | Building Ontario’s first K–12 virtual school during the pandemic.

12:00 – 14:30 | The benefits of combining elementary and secondary schools.

15:00 – 17:30 | Clubs, musicals, carnivals, and sports—surprising opportunities in small schools.

18:00 – 20:30 | Schools as wellness hubs: breakfast programs, grocery pantries, and mental health supports.

20:30 – 22:30 | Advice for parents: public health resources, asking for help, and leaning on community.

22:30 – 24:30 | Louise’s leadership wisdom: lead with empathy, model resilience, and don’t underestimate kids.

24:30 – 25:30 | Closing reflections and call for listener questions.

Notable Quotes

• “We should never underestimate one another—children or adults.” – Louise Gunning
• “You don’t need fancy classrooms to thrive. What you need is a shared vision and determination.” – Louise Gunning
• “Rural schools are the heart of the community. Everyone knows everybody, and that creates a powerful safety net for kids.” – Louise Gunning
• “Transitions are tough, but leading with empathy and modeling healthy coping strategies makes all the difference.” – Louise Gunning
• “Our kids are often stronger and more resilient than we are.” – Louise Gunning

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This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!