PMP512: Forgiveness Looking Like Nachos with Dr. Will Darter

2026-08-05

Download

A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: How can I set the tone on Day #1? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Will Darter: Dr. Will Darter is a rural school superintendent, author, presenter, speaker, and national advocate for small school leadership. He is the host of the Rural Education Leaders Podcast that elevates and celebrates rural voices and foc...

A Quick Note to Listeners:

Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is:

How can I set the tone on Day #1?

Listen in to hear their response!

Meet Will Darter:

Dr. Will Darter is a rural school superintendent, author, presenter, speaker, and national advocate for small school leadership. He is the host of the Rural Education Leaders Podcast that elevates and celebrates rural voices and focuses on impact for leaders. Will is the author of The Empowered Rural Education Leader, where he champions the belief that big things come from small schools.

Will’s transformative leadership and service have had him recognized as the Emerging Superintendent by the Southwest Missouri Association of School Administrators, a Leader of Impact in Small Schools by the National Association of School Superintendents, and a member of the Springfield Business Journal’s 2026 40 Under 40 Class for his leadership, service, and impact in education.

Will is passionate about equipping leaders with practical systems, clear vision, and a deep commitment to service. Through his writing, speaking, and podcasting, he empowers educators to build strong cultures, steward resources wisely, and create lasting impact in the communities they serve.

Let’s Get Into the Episode:

In this episode, hosted by Dr. Jen Schwanke, we challenge the “bigger is better” narrative that often dominates educational conversations. While urban and suburban districts frequently capture the national spotlight, the heart of American education beats strongly in its rural communities. My guest today, Dr. Will Darter, joins us to share his unique journey from a childhood in Orange County, California, to the rural heartland of Missouri, where he now serves as a dedicated administrator and advocate for small schools. We discuss the challenges and value of tight-knit communities, the shift from a “scarcity mindset” to one of stewardship, and why the most impactful leadership isn’t about a ladder of status, but about climbing a “wall of significance.”

Significance Over Status:

Rural leadership offers a unique level of visibility and impact. In a small district, leaders can’t hide; success is measured not by “flashy” facilities, but by the faithfulness of service and the depth of connection to every student and staff member.

The “Speedboat” Analogy:

Unlike large “cruise ship” districts that take a long time to turn, small schools function like speedboats. With a clear, written plan and a driven team, rural leaders can implement change and see the direct impact of their vision almost immediately.

Stewardship vs. Scarcity:

Rather than focusing on what they lack compared to suburban and urban districts, rural leaders are best served by focusing on the resources they do have. This includes building local partnerships where the community and students work together to improve their own schools.

Connection as the Antidote to Burnout:

Rural administration can feel like an island, but isolation is often self-imposed. Dr. Darter emphasizes that “connection beats burnout” and advocates for maintaining a tight inner circle of mentors and peers to sustain long-term passion for the work.

Staying Connected:

If you would like to learn more about Will Darter, follow any of these links below: