Rachel Feldman is a graduate of Bowling Green State University in Ohio, where she earned her degree in Secondary Mathematics Education (grades 7-12). She then continued her education by earning her Master’s degree in Learning Design from the University of Illinois while also beginning her teaching career in Chicago. She has taught a wide range of students at the middle and high school levels, including courses in Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, and College Algebra. She loves to teach using hands-on, real world applications that emphasize cooperation and problem-solving. She is excited to have joined such a dedicated and inspiring community at Walker’s!

What other roles do you hold on campus?

Varsity Volleyball Coach, Assistant Lacrosse Coach, Upper School Co-Advisor

What was it about Walker’s that made you want to work here?

The students really made an impression on me when I first came to campus. They were engaged in academics and extracurriculars, and seemed very happy. They were always up for a challenge, and pushed me as an educator to go beyond the original scope of my lessons.

What is the most rewarding part about working at Walker’s?

The curiosity and dedication of the students is wonderful. Students always want to know more, and that applies both inside and outside the classroom. Students are not afraid to take on challenges and think for themselves.

What is your favorite place on campus?

I really enjoy sitting outside on the chairs between Abra’s and the Centennial Center on a nice day. I have always loved the outdoors, and the views of Talcott Mountain are incredible.

What was your favorite subject when you were in middle or high school? Why?

I was always a big history person. I absolutely loved my World History and European History classes. My teachers were always engaging and funny, and the lessons really made me think critically about the world for the first time. These classes inspired me to continue doing history research in college alongside my mathematics degree, and I would love to teach a history of math course one day!

Why did you want to go into teaching?

I wanted to teach math not because it was my strongest subject, but because it was the subject I struggled in. I understand what it means to need extra help or time, but that also makes the moment where a student makes a connection that much more special. My goal as a math teacher is to help students connect math to the real world. I also believe that even if math is not a student’s favorite subject, problem-solving and critical thinking are life skills that can be learned in a math classroom.

What is your favorite part of the subject you teach now?

I really love to connect math to other subjects and the real world. I enjoy doing projects that present the math that we are learning in new and interesting ways. One of my favorite projects I have done is using geometry to build holograms.

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?

I enjoy playing volleyball, hiking, and writing poetry.