Terry Keyser has nominated Rachel Garrett as our Staff Recognition Highlight this week.
Rachel teaches 5th-grade math, language arts and reading and an MTSS class at Hemlock Middle School, where she has been teaching for 22 years. She has also taught college classes as well as science, social studies and writing.
Her family includes husband Chris, Alannah 18, Camden 14, Aaralyn 9. One special talent she has is playing the bassoon. She was a member of the CMU Marching Chippewa’s Band from 1990-1994. She likes to spend her spare time teaching future teachers at SVSU. Her favorite book is The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. Her favorite quote is “The future of the world is in my classroom today,” by Ivan Welton Fitzwater. Mrs. Garrett’s all-time favorite place visited is Devil’s Tower National Monument in Wyoming.
Rachel earned her Master of Arts in Reading - Reading Specialist degree at SVSU and her Bachelor's in teaching degree from Central Michigan University.
Mrs. Garrett loves teaching, saying she is proudest when her students keep trying to conquer difficult material, especially in math. She believes in her students’ potential and strives to listen and show empathy about personal issues.
Mrs. Garrett says, “I am capable of relating to students at all levels and am prepared to help them learn whatever it takes. I respect my students. Each person’s ideas and opinions are valued. Students feel safe in my room to express their feelings and learn to respect and listen to others. I try to create a welcoming learning environment for all students. I can “shift-gears” and be flexible when a lesson isn’t working.”