Conversations with Rachael Edwards

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachael Edwards.

Hi Rachael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my journey in education over a decade ago as a math teacher. I’ve always had a passion for helping students see that math isn’t something to fear. It’s something they can truly understand and enjoy with the right support. Over the years, I’ve taught math at different grade levels, led professional development on math instruction and technology integration, and supported both students and teachers in building confidence with math.

In 2022, I started “Classroom Bloom,” a creative outlet that grew out of my love for designing functional and beautiful learning spaces. What began with coworkers asking me to decorate their classrooms has grown into a small business where I continue to help educators create inspiring environments for their students.

In 2023, I took a year off from the classroom to recharge and refocus on how I wanted to continue making an impact in education. That time allowed me to grow personally and professionally, and it ultimately led me to my current role as a Math Acceleration Specialist. In this position, I work with small groups of students who need targeted support to close learning gaps. I love being able to blend my classroom experience, data-driven instruction, and creativity to help students grow in math and build lasting confidence in their abilities.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I think that’s where most of my growth has come from. Early in my career, one of the biggest challenges was learning how to meet the wide range of student needs in the classroom while still keeping instruction engaging and effective, all while navigating my personal life as well. Over time, I learned about work-life balance, how to use data, small group instruction, and hands-on learning to make math more accessible for every student.

Taking a year off in 2023 also came with its own set of challenges. Stepping away from the classroom for the first time in years made me reflect deeply on my purpose and what I wanted my next step to be. That period of uncertainty pushed me to think creatively, which is actually how Classroom Bloom grew into what it is today. Balancing entrepreneurship with my return to education has also been a learning experience, but it’s taught me how to manage my time effectively and stay grounded in my “why.”

Every challenge, whether in the classroom, in business, or personally, has helped me become more adaptable, intentional, and confident in the work I do today.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
In my current role as a Math Acceleration Specialist, I work with small groups of students who are performing below grade level in math. My focus is on identifying their specific learning gaps, using data to guide instruction, and providing targeted, hands-on support to help them build both skills and confidence. I specialize in making math approachable, helping students move from frustration to understanding by connecting concepts to real-world applications and using engaging strategies that meet them where they are.

Beyond my work in schools, I also run Classroom Bloom, a business I started in 2022. Through it, I help teachers design classrooms that are not only beautiful but also functional and aligned with their instructional goals. I believe that the environment plays a big role in how students and teachers feel about learning, and I love helping educators create spaces that truly “bloom.”

What I’m most proud of is seeing the growth, whether it’s a student who begins to believe they can do math, or a teacher who lights up when they see their classroom transformed. What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with instruction. I bring both an educator’s mindset and a designer’s eye to everything I do, which allows me to support learning in a well-rounded way: academically, emotionally, and visually.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is being able to balance the different parts of my life with purpose. Being a mother brings me so much joy. It keeps me grounded and reminds me daily of the importance of patience, empathy, and growth. In my career, I find happiness in helping others succeed. Through Classroom Bloom, I love knowing that I’m supporting educators by taking some of the stress and workload off their shoulders so they can focus more on their students. And as a Math Acceleration Specialist, nothing makes me happier than seeing my students grow, not just academically, but in their confidence and belief in themselves.

Ultimately, what makes me happy is knowing that the work I do, in and out of the classroom, is making a positive impact on others’ lives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://classroombloom.org
• Instagram: @classroom_bloom
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Bf2TFxc96/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-edwards-m-a-ed-900a1326b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Other: Tik Tok: @classroombloom