Rumbles, Education, and Community Change with Kristi Hikel

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In this episode of Off the Gravel Road, Robb sits down with Kristi Hikel—former Barnstead Elementary assistant principal and now principal of Moultonborough Central School. Together, they explore Kristi’s journey from PE teacher to school leader, the lessons she’s carried from Barnstead to Moultonborough, and how transparency, vulnerability, and a “farm strong” mindset shape her approach to education.

The conversation touches on:

• The challenges of school funding and teacher retention in small New Hampshire towns
• Finding balance between tradition and change in both education and Scouting
• Lessons from horses, barns, and trails that translate into the classroom
• Kristi’s reflections on raising kids in scouting and helping them navigate their own paths

At its core, this episode is about the “rumbles” that come with growth, leadership, and community—whether in a classroom, a troop meeting, or around the campfire.

Today’s episode of Off the Gravel Road is brought to you by the Prospect Mountain Trades Association. Where, we believe in building strong hands, strong minds, and strong communities. That means bringing the trades directly to our kids—whether it’s welding, plumbing, forestry, or mechanics—and then standing behind them with annual support as they graduate and step into the workforce. Because when our young people succeed, our whole community succeeds. Learn more about how the Prospect Mountain Trades Association is investing in the next generation of skilled workers—and in the future of our towns