The Rural School Leadership Lab (TRSLL) supports educational leaders, particularly in rural school districts, with research, resources, and tools to develop cultural awareness and foster a sense of collective belonging.

Supportive School Communities

Belonging is a fundamental human need (Maslow, 1943). In the classroom, student belonging is closely linked to student success (Ainscow, 2020b; Dyson et al., 2004). Research has shown that when students feel welcome and included in the school setting, attendance is improved (Bouchard & Berg, 2017; Croninger & Lee, 2001), test performance is more remarkable (Faust et al., 2014; B. Sanchez et al., 2005), and discipline referrals are fewer (Catalano et al., 2004). Moreover, student inclusion fosters positive school-to-home relationships and promotes greater parent engagement (K. A. Allen & Bowles, 2012).

Inclusion is an ongoing process and should be viewed as a “never-ending search to find better ways of responding to diversity” (Ainscow, 2020a, p. 126). As such, inclusion is arguably the most challenging issue educational leaders face in the school setting globally (Ainscow & Sandill, 2010; Zollers et al., 2010). The creation of learning environments that foster a sense of belonging and support an atmosphere of inclusion can be challenging, as schools face competing priorities (Pollock & Briscoe, 2020), lack access to sufficient professional development to support inclusion initiatives (Waitoller & Artiles, 2013), and encounter differing opinions across stakeholder groups regarding inclusion and belongingness (Winters, 2013).

The Rural School Leadership Lab (TRSLL) offers data-driven professional development opportunities for rural school educational leaders seeking to deepen their understanding and support of the diverse student and family populations within their school buildings and local communities.

Testimonials

  • "Dr. Amy Konz is an exceptional partner whose expertise and dedication have transformed our district's approach to student learning and belongingness. Amy's data-driven insights and extensive research background have enabled us to implement evidence-based strategies that have had a profound impact on our rural community. Working with Amy has been an unequivocally positive experience, and I wholeheartedly endorse her services to any educational leader seeking meaningful, research-based solutions."

    Christopher M. Clapper, Superintendent, Mayfield Central School District/Alexandria Central School District (2025/2024)

  • "There are educational partners and then there are strategic partners. Dr. Amy Konz strategically creates pathways and opportunities for teams, schools, and organizations to capitalize on their strengths and collaboratively address areas for growth. Dr. Konz is a rare educational partner that can systematically move an organization to realize their short and long term goals in a data-driven way that engages all stakeholders. Above all else, Dr. Amy Konz invests in people and organizational leaders. People over programs!"

    Michael Faustino, Director of Technology, Curriculum, and Instruction, Adirondack Central School District (2024)

  • "Dr. Konz is an expert in data analysis focused on equity and leadership. With extensive experience analyzing complex datasets, she uncovers insights into systemic disparities to drive positive change. I have had the privilege of working with Amy many times over a number of years on widely varying projects. Amy empowers educational leaders to develop targeted strategies promoting access and excellence for all students. As a skilled facilitator, she guides schools through collaborative data inquiry, building educators' capacity for evidence-based planning and improvement. Dr. Konz translates data into actionable insights, making her invaluable for institutions pursuing equitable, effective leadership."

    Christopher G. Rogers, Director of Data, Assessment, Accountability & Technology, Hamilton Central School District (2024)

  • Owner and Primary Educational Consultant

    Dr. Amy J. Konz is an educational leader and academic scholar who lives and works in New York State.

    As a seasoned educator, keynote speaker, and published writer, she has worked for over twenty years in various learning environments and a wide range of professional capacities.

    Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Amy J. Konz finds joy in simple pleasures. She is an avid reader, enjoys leisurely walks, and cherishes the time spent on the back patio with her husband, daughter, and two dogs.

    Click here for Dr. Amy J. Konz's Resume