Given the increasing cultural diversity within our American school system, it is imperative that we are mindful of the stories, culture, values, and lived experiences that are told from the Indigenous perspective. When school culture and community values are aligned, students, families, and teachers will feel more empowered and supported. In order to be an effective leader, it is important for leaders to understand the people they are serving and working alongside, building connections to who they are and what they value.

Tanya Mau, Hawai'i Teacher Induction Center

I wish I would have had this guide when I started my career as a rural principal. What a wealth of insight and knowledge for administrators new to rural Alaska.

Rick Luthi, MEd., Alaskan educator for 40 years, teacher, principal, and superintendent in rural Alaska.

Rural School Leadership: Lessons from Alaska is an incredibly valuable contribution to the field. The conversation around Indigenous education has been growing, and for some time researchers have been monitoring the successes and failures (as we learn the most from failures at times) regarding Indigenous education. This book is one of a kind. In my time within the educational field, I have long wanted a book like this.

Pearl Kiyawn Nageak Brower, president/CEO Ukpeagvik Iñupiat Corporation, former president, I?isagvik College

As rural Alaskan educators, always needing to adapt resources to our unique contexts gets tiring, old, and can eventually prevent us from fully engaging with them. This shows what we can accomplish when meaningfully collaborating with local educators. I also love that our original names are used! Taikuu Tani - Aatlein Gunalche´esh - Chin'an Gheli - Enaa Baasee' - Qag^aasaachxuzakuq - Quyana cakneq!

Suzzuk Mary Huntington, Iñupiaq, superintendent, Mt. Edgecumbe High School, former teacher and administrator of Bering Strait School District

Leaders in small schools play a vital role in their communities, extending far beyond the traditional program. Schools are the heart of rural towns and villages where people gather for all kinds of activities such as feasts, ceremonies, meetings and cultural events. The unique nature of these important functions requires leaders who are empathetic and supportive. Rural School Leadership: Lessons from Alaska should be in the hands of every educator!

Barbara Angaiak, Alaskan educator and leader for 25 years in the Lower Kuskokwim School District; Alaska Statewide mentor