Rachel Brackney (Brax) is a Principal Intern at Edgecombe County’s alternative program, Connections Learning Academy. Brax taught math and science for nine years in Eastern North Carolina, and is now pursuing her master’s in school administration at North Carolina State University. Her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students is evident in her advocacy for LGBTQ inclusion, mental health, and alternative education approaches. Brax was recognized as the 2023 Edgecombe County Teacher of the Year and, most recently, the 2024 North Central Region Teacher of the Year, where she was one of nine state finalists.