Urbana Elementary substitute teacher Rachel White, revered by her peers for the joy and creative flair she brings to her work, is the 2024-25 FCPS Substitute Teacher of the Year.
White has served as an FCPS substitute teacher for the last eight years. At Urbana Elementary this year, she was a long-term art class substitute in the fall and a long-term substitute media specialist in the spring. In addition to substitute teaching, White is also active in Urbana Elementary’s Parent Teacher Association.
“Ms. White is an invaluable member of our school community,” Urbana Elementary principal Tracy Hilliard said. “She brings so much joy and creativity to her work and our scholars truly benefit from her support no matter whether she is leading in the classroom or supporting one of our school events.”
For this year’s fall book fair, White transformed the library media center entrance into a woodland camping theme and planned a camping-themed activity night.
When the need arose for a long-term library media specialist substitute, she quickly learned the library management computer system and designed a giant wall poster and cut out hundreds of paper hands, where students named their favorite books.
In her nomination packet, her peers said that she knows nearly every student in the school by name. In the classroom, she is known for being understanding but also setting boundaries – all while tapping into her artistic and creative talents.
White will be recognized at the August 27 Board of Education of Frederick County. She is the ninth educator to earn the FCPS Substitute Teacher of the Year, presented annually to an employee who goes above and beyond to support students.
FCPS is always seeking individuals interested in substitute teaching. More information on the application process is available online.