Throughout her years of experience in education, Rachel has fine-tuned an admirable skillset, working with children of all ages. Her approach is both heartwarming and humorous, and her knowledge of the Middle Way philosophy of education runs deep. After several years serving as our Snow Lions lead teacher, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel in this new role of Academic Curriculum Liaison, and eager to benefit from her seasoned perspective.

After graduating from Hampshire College with a focus on ethnobotany, I had big plans to travel the world and further my education. I made (what was intended to be) a short pit-stop in NYC, which turned into a ten-year stay. While there, I accepted a position as a preschool teacher at Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn, NY and also met my husband Kevin—two life-altering events! Upon entering the world of a preschool classroom I was immediately hooked by the awe-inspiring, dynamic, playful world of early childhood. I remained at Saint Ann’s for seven years, learning and refining my skills as an educator from both the children and the amazing teachers with whom I worked.

Soon after our pride and joy Stella was born, Kevin and I moved to the Hudson Valley (where I grew up) to raise her. I remained a teacher, working at several independent schools in both NYC and Upstate, eventually earning my Masters from SUNY New Paltz in Early Childhood Education. On this path, I learned alongside some of the wisest, most thoughtful and experienced colleagues; formed relationships with many inspiring families; and cemented my passion for early childhood education.

After nearly 30 years as a classroom teacher, including the past four as the Snow Lions Lead Teacher at MWS, I am delighted and honored to shift into the role of the Academic Curriculum Liaison (ACL). For some time now, I have been eager to discover an opportunity to broaden my involvement in the field of education. Transitioning to the position of the ACL feels like a natural progression and one I am deeply excited to embrace.

Over the past two years, I have been mentored by Mary Ellen Kenny, who has served as MWS Academic Curriculum Advisor, in preparation for taking on this role. Not only is she a trusted colleague with whom I have had the pleasure of working alongside and learning from over the last 20 years—both at Poughkeepsie Day School and MWS—but she is also a dear friend and voice of wisdom. We will continue to work together this school year.

As the ACL is a brand-new position at MWS, it will develop and evolve over the course of the year. The possibilities are truly endless and we are excited to see the many directions it will take.

Initially, a primary focus of the ACL role will be to help to articulate the vision and ongoing goals for building and maintaining a strong, coherent learning experience for all students. At the heart of this is the hope that we will be able to clearly communicate what a child’s journey is through our school. I will be working closely with faculty and staff to develop a cohesive academic program that is aligned with MWS’ principles and mission. Having grown a deep appreciation for and bond with so many of the amazing faculty at MWS, one aspect of the job that I am particularly looking forward to will be working with the teachers to continue to refine, define and strengthen a joyful yet rigorous experience for our students that will help to prepare them to take their seats in the world. I am so pleased to begin this next chapter in my career at Middle Way School.