The National Math and Science Initiative is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire, engage, and empower all students to succeed in today’s knowledge economy by advancing STEM teaching and learning. NMSI programs provide a continuum of training and support for students and teachers from elementary school through college and are having a lasting impact on teacher effectiveness and student outcomes. Knob Noster School District became a NMSI district during the 2015-2016 school year. Since then Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings at Knob Noster High School have expanded and the number of qualifying scores on AP exams, along with graduation rates and college and career placements have landed KNHS as the #1 Rural School in Missouri by US News & World Report for the past two years.