Skip Navigation

Alumna Rachel Thorson Awarded Teaching Fellowship

University of Wisconsin graduate—Rachel Thorson—was chosen by the Knowles Teacher Initiative as a member of its 2019 Cohort of Teaching Fellows. This year, 37 promising high school mathematics and science teachers who are just beginning their careers were awarded Knowles Teaching Fellowships.

Rachel began teaching at Ripon High School in Ripon, WI during the 2018–2019 school year. She is committed to teaching chemistry to high school students in the U.S. Rachel earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Biology from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point in 2015. She also earned a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 2018.

The Knowles Teacher Initiative supports a national network of mathematics and science teachers who are collaborative, innovative leaders improving education for all students in the United States. The Knowles Teaching Fellowship is an intensive and cohesive, five-year program that supports early-career, high school mathematics and science teachers in their efforts to develop teaching expertise and lead from the classroom.Through the program, Knowles Fellows have access to grants for expenses associated with purchasing classroom materials, engaging in professional development, and spearheading leadership activities that have an impact beyond their own classrooms. Fellows also benefit from access to stipends, mentoring and coaching from experienced teachers and teacher educators, and membership in a nationwide community of more than 400 teachers who are committed to improving education.

More Alumni Notes