Welcome to the 2018-2019 school year!!  This is my ninth year teaching at Marcy Open School.  I previously worked in marketing for 12 years but knew I needed a change and I have always loved working with children.  I've worked at daycares and volunteered at St. Joseph's Home for Children for many years.  I have degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education.  

I have an 11year old daughter and a 3 year old son. We love to explore outside, go camping, do arts and crafts and play, play, play!!   I love to read and I spend a lot of time reading with my children as well.  We also love to spend time with family and friends.  

I'm very excited to be teaching second grade this year.  I'm very committed to building a strong classroom community and creating a welcoming classroom environment where all children will feel safe and encouraged to always do their best. I believe that positive relationships with and among the students is essential to a productive and happy year.  Just as important is the relationship that I have with parents and the involvement that parents have in their child's education and in the classroom.  Parents are always welcome in the classroom and I'm always looking for volunteers.  I will be sending out weekly newsletters to let you know what we have been doing in the classroom and what is coming up next.  I will also include important dates, events, and reminders.  I will post a copy of each newsletter on this website in the newsletter link.  Always feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.  The best way to get a hold of me is by email.  rachel.herder@mpls.k12.mn.us

I am very excited about this school year!

Please click on the links to the right to find out more about our classroom.