Dr. Rachel Askew is an Assistant Professor of Middle Grades Education at Appalachian State University. Her career in education ranges from middle school teacher to post-doctoral researcher and higher education. She received her M.Ed in Teaching and Learning in Urban Schools from Vanderbilt University and Ed.D in Instruction and Curriculum Leadership from the University of Memphis. Dr. Askew’s educational work extends beyond the classroom. She has initiated and led various programs and workshops for inservice teachers, contributing to professional development in science education. Her service includes mentoring education students through book clubs, facilitating professional development workshops, and volunteering in community-based educational programs. She loves working with preservice and inservice teachers to continue dreaming of the possibilities and hope in public education. As a newer NC resident, she resides in Fleetwood, NC with her husband where they are enjoying the mountain life.