Interviewing Rachel Westmoreland

Interviewer: Annika Binstadt

Photo: MPA's website

Rachel Westmoreland (she/her/hers), is one of the newest faculty faces at MPA, working as. the Upper School Assistant. Students can call her Ms. Westmoreland, Ms. W, or Rachel, whatever they prefer. She encourages students to come meet her in the Upper School Office and looks forward to continuing to meet students!

Q: Where were you working/living previously to joining MPA? 

A: Previously, I worked at Academia Cesar Chavez School in St. Paul.

Q: What made you decide to come to MPA? What made you want to work with kids/in a high school?

A: I was excited for the opportunity to work with high school students! I came from an elementary/middle school and am looking forward to the change. The students and staff at MPA have been so welcoming, it already feels like family.  

Q: What has your favorite part of MPA so far?

A: My favorite part of MPA so far has been getting to know the students! I love the pop-in visits to the US office and watching the collaborative creativity flow in the commons area.

Q: Do you have any kids/pets/partners? If so, could you say a little about them?

A: I have two sons in middle school in Stillwater, Ian (8th) and Cal (6th).  My significant other also works in education as a teacher, I’m happy that we can enjoy some time off in the summer together!  I am a football and baseball mom and love every minute that we can get outside together.  We have a 3-year-old “fancy” bearded dragon named Alfonso.  He is very lazy and loves to hang out on our shoulder(s). 

Q: What is your favorite sport (to play or watch)? 

A: I love football and baseball; we are Vikings and Twins fans. Of course, my favorite sports to watch are when my kids are playing (Go Ponies!).  I was in dance for most of my adolescent life and was on the dance team in high school. I also served as an assistant coach for the MN Vikings Cheerleaders.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do in winter?

A: In the winter I love to bundle up and go for long walks in the snow.

Q: Is there anything else you want students to know about you?

A: Some of my other favorite things are salsa dancing, boating on the St. Croix, Starbucks, and Prince!  I am excited to get to know and learn more about all of you, please stop in and introduce yourselves.

Thank you for this interview and welcome to MPA, Ms. Westmoreland, we are so happy to have you!