Midlothian High School prides itself on being an academically rigorous school, harboring many talented teachers and students. Science teacher Ms. Rachel Hill received the CCPS Outstanding Science Teacher Award for the first quarter. Hill, currently in her second year at Midlo, teaches Biology and IB Biology. CCPS Secondary Science Specialist Marsha Rogers states that Hill is “extremely organized and meticulous about the connections her activities have to content that she is teaching each day. She works tirelessly to ensure students experience science in hands-on, engaging ways that challenge them to think critically and ask questions.”

When did you realize that you wanted to be a teacher?

When I was in first grade, I wanted to be a teacher, but then I went in a different direction. In college, I was a biochemistry major, and I was working in a lot of labs while volunteering in schools. I realized I wanted to help people and make sure that I brought all of my knowledge into schools.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your career?

For me, the most rewarding part happens a lot. There is a moment when students are not understanding a topic and then they start understanding. 

If you could be any living organism what would you be and why?

I would be a platypus. They are just so weird. They are ducks, but they aren’t duck, and they are a beaver but also not a beaver. Plus, they get to live on land and water. 

If you could teach any section of science, what would it be and why?

I would teach Organic Chemistry, which is similar to IB Biology. I like it because it is drawing molecules and like little puzzles.

How does it feel to be recognized as CCPS Outstanding Science Teacher for the first quarter?

I feel very honored and surprised. I have a lot of gratitude because we [teachers] all put in a lot of work in the teaching profession, and we don’t often get a lot of recognition.