In this episode, we interview Stuart Packard, former Superintendent at Buttonwillow Union Elementary School District in Buttonwillow, who served as President of the Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA). Packard is a member of ACSA West Kern Charter. He works in California, raising awareness of rural education. We discuss the comparison of urban versus rural and how these observable trends permeate much of the United States. He discusses the challenges of creating a community for students in rural. He cites broadband as an example of where we are not meeting needs. Stuart discussed how people are an important element of education. He cites his schools improved performance in their districts. His school district found partners to help provide healthcare for students to ensure students have access to the resources of need. Moreover, we discussed creating experiential learning opportunities for students to determine their career trajectories. He shares that his school district has created creative methods to encourage teachers to come to rural for jobs. He shares the importance of site visits and how many of his applicants fall in love with the location. The biggest challenge has been related to getting people to visit. The interview shifts to discuss how innovative ideas can be brought into the classroom. Stuart has suggested having an open mind and open ear to new partnerships, internships, and coaching opportunities to help other schools, not only Buttonwillow. My Credential sponsors this Episode! Need CEUs, then contact My Credential for an easy-to-use learning process. https://www.mycredential.com/
Packard began his career in the banking industry but soon found it was not for him. He returned to his alma mater, the University of La Verne, to obtain his teaching credential. After a short stint teaching in the Ontario-Montclair School District, he moved to Kern County, where he continued teaching, rising through the ranks, working at various schools throughout the county, and settling in Buttonwillow as Superintendent/Principal ten years ago. He is now the Superintendent of the district.
Packard has served the educational community on several boards, committees, and councils — Schools Legal Board of Directors, Kern County Facilities Committee, Kern County SELPA Executive Council, and as an alternate on the SISC Board. He has been a member of the executive board of the Small School Districts’ Association since 2013 and served as Vice President in 2019-2020, with the main focus being Legislative Action.