Rachel, originally from the South, ventured to the Tetons in 2018, bringing with her a rich educational background and a passion for teaching. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a BA in Religious Studies along with minors in Mathematics and Coaching Education. Her journey into education led her to Eastern North Carolina, where she taught high school math for two years as part of the Teach For America program.
Seeking to deepen her understanding of educational methodologies, Rachel pursued an M.Ed. in Learning and Design at Vanderbilt University's Peabody College. There, she delved into various aspects of learning and design, particularly within outdoor education. She explored the socio-emotional benefits of activities like rock climbing, strategies for enhancing group dynamics, and the comparative merits of outdoor and traditional education settings.
After completing her master's degree, Rachel briefly taught 4th-grade math before joining The Community School in Jackson to teach high school math. Rachel now works full-time as an independent tutor. Rachel is driven by the belief that anyone can excel in math and is dedicated to helping students gain the confidence and trust needed to thrive in the subject. Her approach focuses on building strong relationships and fostering a positive mindset towards math, aiming to empower students to achieve success on their own terms.