Meet the Teacher

Hello everyone - my name is Rachel Thompson (she/they) and this year I have the privilege of being your student's Drama/ Digital Film Teacher at Manzano High School. I am an Albuquerque native and am passionate about helping mentor this group of students to help shape the future of our city and world. This year, your students will be expected to work creatively and collaboratively with their peers to grow in an artistic community.

My Teaching Philosophy

It is my strong belief that every student should be given every opportunity to succeed in their education, meaning that they are respected and honored as a unique individual. Your student's life outside my classroom is important to me, which is why I strive to honor their social, emotional, and physical health throughout the school year.

Every student learns in different ways, each with their own strengths and areas for growth. In my class, every student will have time to shine in their strengths and stretch in their struggles. To this end, I plan to diversify assessments, ranging from traditional to contemporary, so that every student has a chance to succeed. In doing this, students will learn skills to succeed not only at Manzano, but beyond graduation.

My Education

While I completed high school in Albuquerque, my first college experience was overseas, where I first discovered my love for learning languages along with my love teaching. Since then, I have graduated with my Associates Degree from CNMCC and my Bachelors Degree from UNM - both with honors. My year of student teaching was spent at Manzano High School, where I discovered my passion for creating classroom communities to support student learning.

Who Am I?

When not at school, I'm probably either at a local coffee shop, listening to some good music with my two adorable cats, devouring pizza, playing Dungeons and Dragons, or seeing a show at one of our many community theatres. I love my home city of Albuquerque and the amazing opportunities for creativity it holds.