Built to Last: The REST Blueprint for Rural School Resilience

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Description

Rural schools are the heart of their communities, often expected to do more with less. Educators, administrators, and staff are not only managing instruction—they're also carrying the emotional weight of constant change, resource limitations, and community expectations. This session introduces "The REST Blueprint," a four-part model developed to support the mental and emotional well-being of those serving in rural education. Designed by a board-certified physician with frontline and leadership experience, REST stands for Reflect, Exhale, Shift, and Trust. Attendees will gain tools to decompress in real-time, shift their mindset, and stay rooted in purpose, even in high-pressure environments.

Participants will leave with:

  • Classroom-ready strategies for real-time emotional resets

  • Leadership tips for cultivating a resilient school climate

  • Wellness tools that prevent burnout and improve staff retention

This interactive session includes relatable stories, hands-on activities, and printable tools. It's not about adding more—it’s about helping our educators feel steady, valued, and ready.

PRESENTER: Renee Sunday, M.D.

Renee Sunday, M.D., is a board-certified anesthesiologist with over 26 years of experience in high-pressure environments. She is also a Certified AI Consultant, Corporate Wellness Strategist, and founder of DRS Global. After being diagnosed with stroke-level blood pressure during a post-accident medical evaluation, she developed The REST Blueprint to help professionals, educators, and leaders reset and protect their well-being without sacrificing their mission.

Dr. Sunday is an award-winning author, media personality, and speaker, known for bridging science, leadership, and spiritual wellness in her trainings. She brings a unique voice and perspective to the challenges—and promise—of supporting today’s educators.