TREA | Where Rural Matters Podcast

In this episode of the Where Rural Matters podcast, TREA leaders sit down with Allison Ames of TIPS to break down what TIPS is and why it’s been a long-time partner of rural districts across Texas. Allison explains how TIPS helps schools buy faster, stay compliant, and reduce the burden of running RFPs , while also ensuring purchases are defensible and audit-ready through competitively awarded con...

In this episode of Where Rural Matters , we highlight how Lamar State College Port Arthur partners with districts across Texas to offer academic and technical dual credit pathways. Students can take courses at their high school, on the LSCPA campus, or online—earning high school and college credit at the same time . We discuss how dual credit helps students transition smoothly into college, comple...

In this episode, we sit down with Terri King Hunt from Just Right Reader to explore their SBOE-approved, TEKS-aligned library of engaging decodable books and instructional resources . Terri shares how these decodable resources are designed to accelerate the reading achievement of all students and create joyful reading opportunities for students, families, and teachers. Whether you’re a teacher, ad...

In this episode of Where Rural Matters , Executive Director Bill Tarleton sits down with Dr. Nugget Cunningham from Teachworthy and Dr. Jason Hewitt, Superintendent of Shepherd ISD, to discuss innovative solutions for the rural teacher shortage. Learn how Teachworthy and Indiana Wesleyan University are partnering with districts to certify both degreed and non-degreed staff through affordable, grow...

Dr. Shaun Barnett of RMC of Texas joins TREA to break down how their co-op supports rural districts with flexible, high-quality property and casualty insurance—plus why strong service matters more than low premiums.

TREA leaders break down House Bill 2, teacher raises, new allotments, and the failed HB4 accountability bill. A must-listen for rural Texas educators and advocates. DISCLAIMER: The content of this episode is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners should consult their own legal counsel for advice regarding specific legal matters.

In this episode of Where Rural Matters , we speak with Bill King of KLC Video and Security, a long-time TREA partner and champion for campus safety. Bill shares how KLC has supported Texas and Arkansas school districts for over two decades with integrated security solutions—from camera systems and access control to the latest in panic alert technology. Hear how KLC is leading with innovation throu...

In this episode of Where Rural Matters , we sit down with Melissa Gordon, Pre-Construction Manager at HWH Construction, a long-standing diamond sponsor of TREA. Melissa shares how HWH supports rural Texas school districts through relationship-driven construction services, pre-bond planning, and flexible delivery models like CMAR and design-build. With decades of experience and a deep understanding...

In this episode of Where Rural Matters , we sit down with Brian Stroman, Superintendent of Bloomberg ISD, to break down the District Vulnerability Assessment (DVA) process. Brian shares firsthand insights on what a DVA is, why it’s important for every school district, and how he and the Region 8 safety team have helped over 25 districts prepare — at no cost. Learn how your district can be proactiv...

The University of Kansas is partnering with the TREA to offer grant funding for the CW-FIT program—a research-supported classroom management and engagement program designed to foster positive learning environments. There are slots for 3 rural schools to join the CW-FIT grant in the fall of 2025! Grant Details and Benefits: Eligibility: Open to rural K-5 English Language Arts and 6-8 core subject c...

Listen to the free benefits TREA member districts can receive from Powell Law Group, LLP and myCredential.

Listen to introductory podcast as the team introduces themselves, discusses what to expect from the podcast, and information about the upcoming TREA Annual Conference.