As part of our series on the Eight Characteristics of Effective School Boards, we’re highlighting districts that bring these principles to life. This month, we’re focusing on Collaborative Relationships — building strong relationships and engaging everyone in setting and achieving district goals. 

Rawlins County USD 105 is a great example of how working together can lead to success, even during tough times. 

One of the hardest parts of collaboration is finding the time. With so many things demanding attention, building relationships can sometimes feel less urgent. But in Atwood, home to Rawlins County Schools, prioritizing community partnerships is critical. 

“If we don’t make time for collaboration and communication, nothing gets done. Everyone would be working in circles instead of together,” said Lacy Sramek, elementary principal. Sramek, who joined the district in 2010 and is now in her fourth year as principal, knows that relationships are the key to success in a small community. 

“You wear a lot of hats in a small town, and you step in wherever you’re needed. To make things work, you’ve got to have everyone on board—parents, staff, students and the community,” added Jen Melia, a social studies teacher at Rawlins County High School. 

This spirit of teamwork was tested on June 5, 2023, when a fire badly damaged the junior/senior high school. Important spaces like the cafeteria, gym, auditorium and classrooms were unusable. 

“When the fire happened, everybody came together. Churches and businesses offered their spaces for classes, and the whole region helped with fundraising,” recalled Superintendent Eric Stoddard, who is in his fifth year leading the district. 

While construction of a temporary modular campus began that summer, the district had to get creative to keep students learning. They turned elementary school spaces into makeshift classrooms and worked with the local Methodist church to hold classes until the modular campus was ready in Feb. 2024. 

On Aug. 6, 2024, the district passed a bond to build a new K-12 school. They also worked with local officials and state lawmakers to implement a countywide sales tax to help pay for the new building. 

Cathy Horton, a community member and part of the Keep Improving District Schools (KIDS) Committee, was amazed by the response. “It was incredible how the community stepped up after the fire. Whenever help was needed, people were there to answer the call,” she said. 

District leaders know that collaboration isn’t just about solving big problems—it’s also about building trust every day. 

“To make big decisions happen, you need input and support from staff and groups like PTO and site councils,” said Junior/Senior High Principal Jeffrey Samson. “Their involvement helps shape good decisions and builds trust with the community.” 

Rawlins County Board of Education Vice-President Jordan Dunker shared how listening plays a big role. “When I’m talking to someone in the community and they tell me what’s going well, I always ask them what’s not going well and how we can make things better,” he said. 

Taking time to explain the district’s needs and priorities has helped Rawlins County create a shared understanding. That clarity makes it easier to move forward as a team, whether they’re working with local businesses, families or community groups. 

Collaboration has been part of Rawlins County’s story for years. Many staff members grew up in the district and have chosen to stay and invest their talents in their hometown. 

“Our community wants our schools to succeed because we’re invested,” said Horton. “Everyone has a connection—children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews. It’s great to have so many people who stayed and are helping our schools thrive.” 

Now, with plans for a new K-12 school building underway, Superintendent Stoddard is excited for what’s ahead. “We’re going to have a great building that meets all our physical needs, but it’s the people who determine our success. The resilience and commitment of our community will keep us moving forward.” 

Even in difficult times, Rawlins County has shown how a united community can rise above challenges and create a strong foundation for the future. 

The district’s story serves as a reminder that when we work together, we can accomplish great things for our students, schools and communities.