Rachel is an educator who finds joy in creating spaces where young children can explore, take risks, and connect deeply with the world around them. Her 7.5 years working at an outdoor education school in Houston, Texas, shaped her belief in the power of nature and play to inspire curiosity, confidence, and connection in young learners. With a graduate degree in education from Vanderbilt University and a background in both early childhood and auxiliary programming, she has led teams across classrooms, after-school programs, and summer camps. She is passionate about building strong, collaborative teams that center children’s needs, support joyful learning, and foster a deep sense of belonging for students, families, and educators. Whether designing hands-on programming, guiding explorations in nature, or creating opportunities for play and discovery, she leads with intention, creativity, and care. Now in her 10th year in independent schools, and after a wonderful year teaching preschool at Mountain Academy, she is excited to step into the role of Atelierista, introducing every child in the program to the “hundred languages.” Outside of school, she’s most often found on the trails with her dog Rosie, riverside camping, or bird watching.