A Message from My Colleagues & Students

Collected reflections on my teaching, directing, and mentorship—from those who’ve shared the journey in classrooms, rehearsals, and beyond.

“Rachel has a heart for working with kids and building programs that showcase their talents.”

— Mindy Simons, Administrator

“What stands out most to me about my time with Mrs. Rae? How we’re able to work through every bump in the road we face. Lighting system not working? We figure it out. Set pieces not looking good? We figure that out too.”

— Kaydence Hutton, Class of 2026

“Rachel took initiative in developing new programs during her time at the school. She produced several plays throughout the year, giving students a platform for creative expression.”

— Mindy Simons, Administrator
“Despite not having her class, just being in her last few shows and watching the productions made the atmosphere a lot more friendly and comfortable to be myself.”

Class of 2026, Anonymous Attribution
“She’s a kind, caring person who wants people to be successful. She can be mean though when you aren’t behaving 🤣 She made me realize how much I love makeup and beauty and is part of the reason I want to pursue cosmetology.”

— Rose Bibby, Class of 2023
“I observed Ray’s passion, dedication, and genuine curiosity in everything they did. Working with a core group of students, Ray created a space where theatre and performance became a true ‘home’ at school."

— Ginny Miles, Fellow English & Electives Teacher
“Don’t give up, Mrs. Rae. You have many students and alumni who have your back.”

Kaydence Hutton, Class of 2026
"You're one of the best teachers anyone can come across.”

— Class of 2026, Anonymous Attribution
“Mrs. Erazo made me feel comfortable in the space super fast—I found myself making friends and speaking up instead of being quiet all the time. She helped me feel braver about acting, talking, and singing on stage.”

Nathan Wright – Class of 2028
“I believe Mrs. Erazo could do any show she sets her mind to—if someone says no, I know she and others could convince them it’s worth doing. She’s great at balancing fun with being an awesome director. She made us laugh, took lots of notes, and actually made the shows happen.”

Nathan Wright – Class of 2028
"I can absolutely see Ray as a fabulous adjunct professor. Their ability to trust and delegate to students rather than micromanage is something college-level arts programs would benefit from.”

— Ginny Miles, Fellow English & Electives Teacher

A Message from My Colleagues & Students

“Rachel has a heart for working with kids and building programs that showcase their talents.”

“What stands out most to me about my time with Mrs. Rae? How we’re able to work through every bump in the road we face. Lighting system not working? We figure it out. Set pieces not looking good? We figure that out too.”

“Rachel took initiative in developing new programs during her time at the school. She produced several plays throughout the year, giving students a platform for creative expression.”

“Despite not having her class, just being in her last few shows and watching the productions made the atmosphere a lot more friendly and comfortable to be myself.”

“She’s a kind, caring person who wants people to be successful. She can be mean though when you aren’t behaving 🤣 She made me realize how much I love makeup and beauty and is part of the reason I want to pursue cosmetology.”

“I observed Ray’s passion, dedication, and genuine curiosity in everything they did. Working with a core group of students, Ray created a space where theatre and performance became a true ‘home’ at school."

“Don’t give up, Mrs. Rae. You have many students and alumni who have your back.”

"You're one of the best teachers anyone can come across.”

“Mrs. Erazo made me feel comfortable in the space super fast—I found myself making friends and speaking up instead of being quiet all the time. She helped me feel braver about acting, talking, and singing on stage.”

“I believe Mrs. Erazo could do any show she sets her mind to—if someone says no, I know she and others could convince them it’s worth doing. She’s great at balancing fun with being an awesome director. She made us laugh, took lots of notes, and actually made the shows happen.”

"I can absolutely see Ray as a fabulous adjunct professor. Their ability to trust and delegate to students rather than micromanage is something college-level arts programs would benefit from.”