103 | Fostering Student Success in Small Towns with Rikkie Jensen

Episode Summary
In this inspiring episode of The Rural Scoop, we sit down with Rikkie Jensen, one of ARSA 2024 Rural Teachers of Distinction, who teaches in Chino Valley, Arizona. With over a decade of teaching experience in both urban and rural settings, Rikkie shares her deep passion for rural education, community connection, and the transformative power of teaching. From her childhood dream of becoming a teacher to the profound relationships she's built with students and families, Rikkie’s story is one of resilience, heart, and commitment to her craft. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just curious about life in rural schools, this episode is a heartfelt celebration of why rural matters.
Key Discussion Points
1. Path to Teaching: Rikkie shares her early passion for education and the moment she knew teaching was her calling—starting in first grade with stuffed animal students.

2. Urban vs. Rural: Drawing on her experience teaching in North Las Vegas and Chino Valley, she explains why rural settings offer unique opportunities for deeper community connection.

3. Building Relationships: As both a teacher and a parent in her community, Rikkie highlights the value of visibility, connection, and trust with students and families.

4. Wearing Many Hats: From coaching sports to supporting livestock projects, Rikkie exemplifies the multifaceted role of rural educators.

5. Challenges in Rural Education:
- Budget limitations and supply shortages.
- Teacher recruitment and retention struggles.
- Housing barriers—and the creative solution of teacher tiny homes in her district.

6. Creative Solutions: Rikkie shares how community partnerships, local support, and resourcefulness help her overcome obstacles.

7. The Power of CTE & STEAM: She celebrates the rise of career and technical education and student exposure to real-world career paths.

8. Professional Development in Rural Areas: Rikkie discusses attending workshops like those at Lowell Observatory and using state resources and online learning to stay current and connected.

9. Mentoring Future Teachers: She recounts the joy of mentoring a former student, emphasizing the importance of support and inspiration for the next generation of educators.

10. The Rural Advantage: Rikkie defines it as being “small and mighty”—a phrase that encapsulates the strength and tight-knit spirit of rural schools.
Closing Summary
Rikkie Jensen’s journey reminds us that rural education is filled with heart, innovation, and impact. Her story showcases how dedicated teachers can shape not just classrooms but entire communities. By fostering relationships, embracing creativity, and mentoring others, Rikkie represents the best of what rural education has to offer. Her message is clear: with purpose, passion, and perseverance, rural educators can—and do—make a world of difference.