𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
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.
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.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬:
00:00 Welcome to The Rural Scoop
00:48 Introducing Principal Jayme Braida
02:20 Growing Up Rural and Finding Purpose
05:12 Overcoming Trauma and Building Resilience
08:27 The Teacher Who Believed in Me
12:34 Journey from Teacher to Rural Principal
15:40 Returning Home to Serve the Community
18:02 Balancing Leadership and Small-Town Life
20:45 Lessons for New Rural Leaders
23:19 The Challenge of Change and Mindset Shifts
26:48 Building Equity and Representation in Schools
30:07 Addressing Poverty, Trauma, and Resource Gaps
33:41 Funding, Policy, and Rural Realities
36:10 Family Engagement and School as Community Hub
39:28 Creating Positive School Culture with Capturing Kids’ Hearts
42:04 Celebrating Teachers and Building Staff Morale
44:25 Sharing the Story of Rural Excellence
45:42 The Rural Advantage and Closing Reflections
𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
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.”