In this insightful conversation, elementary educator Rachel shares the lived experiences that drew her into teaching and the values that continue to guide her in an increasingly complex school landscape.

From struggling as a student herself to working at Boys and Girls Club and now navigating today’s post-COVID classrooms, Rachel’s story highlights the compassion, creativity, and resilience that shape truly meaningful teaching.

She reflects on:

• How her own learning challenges inspired her to help students who “don’t see the steps” the way others do.

• Why relationship-building—not pressure—is at the core of effective learning.

• The shift from traditional resource rooms to in-class supports, and why teachers feel stretched.

• The rise in learning needs, mental health challenges, and behavioural complexities.

• Why making mistakes is essential to learning—and how she builds safe, joyful classrooms.

• What burnout looked like for her, and why stepping out of the homeroom helped her rediscover her spark.

• How teachers and parents can better communicate to support children without overwhelming one another. 

Rachel also shares the practices that keep her grounded—setting boundaries, embracing fresh perspectives, spending time on her family farm, and learning to leave work at work so she can show up fully for her students.

Her honesty offers a powerful reminder that great teaching comes from humanity, not perfection—and that supporting educators is essential to supporting kids.