Josh Reese, a special education supervisor from rural Tennessee, attended the National Forum to Advance Rural Education conference seeking collaboration. Representing a small, 5,000-student district, Reese values the tight-knit community and the opportunity to empower staff to benefit students. He stressed the importance of partnerships and advocacy to align stakeholders toward progress. If Reese had a “magic wand,” he would raise expectations so students, families, and communities understand children’s potential. He encourages interested listeners to engage actively with the welcoming attendees at the 2024 conference. Reese can be followed advocating for public education on Twitter @JoshuaReese84. Michael Crosa helps people across the US to create, distribute, and monetize their podcasts. Learn more at Chattanooga Podcast Studios dot com. He is also the head of the PodNooga Network which can be found on Instagram and Facebook at PodNooga.