In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Dr. Chris Daughtry, Superintendent of Lewis Cass Schools (IN). With deep roots in rural education and service in the Air Force Reserve, Chris shares how he’s leading through listening, rebuilding trust, and shaping a strategic plan that reflects both fiscal responsibility and community pride.

From launching a districtwide strategic plan built on clear pillars to mentoring future leaders and refreshing 1950s facilities, Chris offers a grounded look at how rural districts can thrive by focusing on people, purpose, and place.

Nate and Chris also explore aligning district goals with community values, creating in-house instructional models, and redefining “success” through belonging, safety, and engagement.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome and introduction to Dr. Chris Daughtry

02:24 From classroom teacher to superintendent—mentorship and leadership growth

05:26 Defining success in a rural district: growth, safety, and fiscal stewardship

07:06 Listening tours and aligning goals with community values

10:18 Building a strategic plan rooted in district pillars

12:27 Preparing students for career pathways and modernizing facilities

13:47 Recruiting and retaining teachers in small-town Indiana

19:49 Mentoring future leaders and sustaining the pipeline

23:26 Elevating staff voice through collaboration and shared decision-making

34:42 Advice for rural superintendents—relationships first, always

Why You’ll Love This Episode
If you lead in a rural or close-knit district, Chris’s story will resonate. You’ll hear how small schools can lead with flexibility, how culture and strategy intertwine, and why listening first creates lasting change. It’s a masterclass in grounded leadership—rooted in community, built on relationships, and driven by doing what’s best for kids.

Connect with Dr. Chris Daughtry
Website: https://www.lewiscass.net/

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About the Lebra Podcast
The Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact.

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