WMAES Teacher Named in MAPSA’s Top 5 Finalists

Congratulations to Rachel McKenna, a 2nd Grade Teacher at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES), for being named in MAPSA’s Top 5 Finalists for Teacher of the Year!

When asked about her top 5 nomination, Rachel said, “I feel so honored, especially with all of the other amazing Choice teachers that were in the top 25 as well. I am truly in the profession that I was meant to be in. There may be a lot of late nights and stacks of papers to grade, but I have never pictured myself doing anything else in my life, and I love the teaching profession. I think the secret at WMAES is the support of parents and staff, matched with the unique environment we have on our campus.”

[perfectpullquote align=”right” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”I think the secret at WMAES is the support of parents and staff, matched with the unique environment we have on our campus.”[/perfectpullquote]

Rachel continued, “I came to our school five years ago with very little appreciation for the outdoors. Simply teaching at WMAES has enhanced my teaching by allowing me to grow along with my students, learning about the environment with them and I think that one of the reasons why so many of our teachers are nominated for teacher of the year. We take a step back and allow our campus to help guide our teaching. It reaches our students in amazing ways!”

Check out the official announcement video on MAPSA’s Facebook page HERE >


We are proud of each and every staff member at Choice. Families of Choice make a commitment to our academies, administrators and most importantly our instructional staff. Like Rachel said, it takes a lot to be a teacher – more than one would believe. But, the work you do and the countless hours you commit to your families and students do not go unnoticed. You are valued and appreciated and we thank you for your dedication!