Dustin Moe, Washburn, ND

I chose to teach in a rural school because honestly they offered me a job. I stayed because it is a great community and fantastic/talented kids.

I would tell teachers entering the profession not to over look the small schools. That is where communities need great teachers. I think a bigger school district can have an average teacher and be just fine. The small school are different, they need someone who is willing to go above and beyond. Yes, it is more work, but it is also more rewarding.

My rural advantage is that I get to chose how my music program runs. I don't have a fine arts coordinator and a department head and someone breathing down my neck. I just get to teach and that is awesome. I think that is how creative people excel.