Success in a PK-12 educational environment begins at the top with school leadership. Due to economic problems, poverty and added responsibilities, leaders in rural communities throughout the United States face sensitive and distinctive challenges. Based on research and years of administrative experience as school and school system leaders, the authors aim to provide specific strategies for successful school leadership. These strategies will support positive actions and decisions related to financial and budget issues; recruitment and retention of teachers and other personnel; community involvement and intrusion; and the push for continued progress in the area of academic achievement. Included are detailed examples from the authors' personal experiences and support from the literature related to rural leadership.