In this episode of the CCPA Playbook, we sit down with Darrick Buettner — a respected leader who bridges the gap between education and community service in Citrus County and beyond. With a career rooted in purpose, Darrick has become a driving force behind impactful school district initiatives and grassroots efforts that strengthen our local communities.

From the classroom to the boardroom, his leadership isn’t just about policies or paperwork — it’s about building pathways, partnerships, and progress that actually serve people.

In this episode, we explore:

• How strong leadership transforms both school systems and neighborhoods — and how Darrick balances both roles with clarity and intention.
• The challenges of turning big ideas into real action — especially in spaces that require collaboration, patience, and persistence.
• Why community engagement is a long game — and why staying consistent matters more than being loud.
• The critical importance of creating clear, supportive pathways for students — whether they’re heading to college, joining the military, or stepping into a career straight out of high school.
• How mentorship, servant leadership, and showing up every day builds trust and momentum.

Darrick also shares the importance of staying grounded, leading by example, and being someone others can count on — even when the spotlight isn’t shining.

Whether you're an educator, a public servant, a civic-minded neighbor, or just someone who wants to see their community grow — this conversation offers a front-row seat into what it really looks like to lead where it counts.