Spotlight: Rachel Kinsaul (GA '24)

Georgia Milken Educator Rachel Kinsaul (GA ‘24) teaches agricultural science to grades 9–12 at Morgan County High School. Known for her hands-on teaching and leadership, Kinsaul mentors fellow educators, led fundraising for The Morgan Agricultural Learning Lab, and organized Sophomore Service Day to connect students with local community service projects. She received her Milken Educator Award on March 4, 2025.

Milken Family Foundation: How did you feel at your Milken Educator Award notification?

The Award notification was a surreal experience. I knew something fishy was up, but I had no idea about the Milken Award or what it would mean for my future. 

MFF: How did students respond to your Milken Award?

Everyone wanted me to buy them lunch! But after the initial joke, they were all very excited for me!

MFF: What made you want to pursue a career in education?

When I was in college, I worked at Teton Valley Ranch Camp, a kids ranch camp in Dubois, Wyoming.. After my first summer in Wyoming, I realized I wanted to work with students. And teaching agriculture was a way to combine my two passions!

MFF: How do your hands-on projects, like the floral design class, enhance student engagement and learning in agriculture?

I believe that my students walk away with real-world experiences that often result in real-world problem-solving! When students see the relevance in what they’re doing, they focus and do it to the best of their abilities. There is no pressure like creating a bride’s floral vision for a REAL wedding!

MFF: What strategies did you use to successfully fundraise for The Morgan Agricultural Learning Lab, and how has the barn impacted your students’ learning experiences?

What really helped us over the course of our fundraising campaign was being very intentional when contacting potential sponsors. We utilized community connections and sought after business that would have a direct relationship with what we were doing. Because of the barn, our livestock program has grown and more students than ever have been able to participate in the project. Having all of the pigs and students in one place also allows us to spend more time working with the students on showmanship and helping maintain each animal’s health.

MFF: What does “success” look like for you and your students in life?

I’m lucky to live in a small town where I often see my former students. Success to me is being able to see them thriving at whatever their next step may be, whether that’s college or entering the workforce! The amount of pride I feel when I see these guys out rocking the “adulting” thing is immeasurable!

MFF: Who are your role models in education?

Wow, this is hard! I’ve had so many impactful mentors. My former Principal Miki Edwards stands out as a visionary for education, and I value her opinion and her words of wisdom. Dr James Woodard, former Morgan County Schools superintendent, has been a wonderful resource for me as I navigate all things education. He has worn many hats and can see situations the way that others perceive them (which is often what I need to hear). Dr Bill Waldrep—I hope my students talk about me 25 years later the way his former students talk about him. As a young teacher, I soaked in every piece of advice he offered.

MFF: How do you hope to be remembered by your students?

I hope to be remembered as someone who cared. And someone who was so excited about what I was teaching that the kids were excited about it, too! I also want people to remember me as someone who didn’t just go to work and go home, but also saw the value in being a productive and engaged member of their community. And I hope that I have inspired the kids to be involved, too.

MFF: Are you working on any interesting initiatives or new projects these days? Is there anything else you want to share about your school?

I am currently serving as the 2026 Georgia Teacher of the Year,which, in Georgia, means that I am taking a year out of the classroom to advocate for teachers. I am currently serving as an ex officio member of the State Board of Education, touring the state hosting professional learning sessions and giving keynote speeches. I am very excited to be able to shine the light on Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education across the state.