Julia Cunningham, the U.S. Department of Education's Director of Rural Engagement, attended the National Forum to Advance Rural Education conference to connect with rural advocates and share federal efforts like the new Career Connected High School grant program. This program funds career pathways and work-based learning to provide rural students with more local career opportunities. Cunningham noted the optimism, alignment, and collaborative spirit across the rural education community in spaces like this. If she had a "magic wand," Cunningham would ensure every rural school could become a fully-funded community school offering healthcare, food, and other wraparound supports less accessible in remote areas. People can learn more by subscribing to Cunningham's monthly Rural School and Community Updates newsletter and emailing her at Julia.Cunningham@ed.gov. 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.