For over 25 years, researchers have identified "best practices" used by high-achieving school districts. However, little research exists regarding rural school systems, making it difficult to determine whether the best practices identified are relevant within this context. This study filled a void in research by focusing on the organizational practices of high-achieving, rural school districts. The findings from this study demonstrate the complex interrelatedness of organizational practices and the variables that attribute to internal coherence within a district, which resulted in higher levels of student achievement. The findings provide educators with a greater understanding of organizational practices that may assist rural and other school districts in identifying, understanding, and engaging in organizational practices that lead to high academic achievement.