From rural beginnings to districtwide improvements, one local superintendent is being recognized for leadership reaching across classrooms, campuses and the community. Richmond School District Superintendent Dr. Bryan Copple has been named the Best Leader in this year’s Love Local Legends community voting. The newspaper hosts the contest to recognize individuals and organizations making an impact in the community through two rounds of public voting, beginning with open write-in nominations followed by a final ballot to determine category winners. Copple’s path to leadership began in north-central Missouri, where his childhood shaped both his values and his career direction. “I grew up in the small town of Brookfield,” said Copple. “My father was one of two town dentists in Brookfield and he was also the president of the school board while my brother and I attended school.” His early exposure to public education left a lasting impression. “I had a great experience of public…