In this episode of The Rural Scoop podcast, hosts Melissa and Ty interview Allison Mitkowski, the 2023 Arizona Rural Teacher of the Year who teaches English, economics, and government at Williams High School. Allison discusses the tight-knit rural community and deep connections with students and families. She highlights the logistical challenges of rural schools, like lack of housing and internet access. Allison wears many hats, teaching several subjects and sponsoring extracurriculars focused on inclusion. She shares rewarding experiences reaching students, from playing chess with a student she first bonded with while delivering homework during COVID, to establishing an engaging mock trial program with the courts. Allison advocates for rural teacher retention and recruitment. She encourages rural teaching for those who love deep community ties and making an impact through relationships. Though Allison didn't intend to become a teacher originally, she finds rural education profoundly meaningful.

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Our theme song is Quittin Time Rag by Lon Eldridge. Find his music at https://www.loneldridge.com/