Ms. Rachel's Story: From Summer Volunteer to Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Rachel's Story: From Summer Volunteer to Kindergarten Teacher

Rachel Patronella joined the staff of The Westview School as a Kindergarten teacher in August 2023. However, her connection with Westview began many years earlier as a summer volunteer—and her experiences during Westview Summer Camp ultimately guided her career path. Now a dedicated teacher at Westview, Rachel reflects on how her experiences as a volunteer shaped her future as a teacher.

Rachel started volunteering at Westview after eighth grade. She was looking for summer opportunities to fulfill her hours through a volunteer organization. “I always knew I wanted to work with kids, but I wasn’t sure how,” she explained. “Volunteering at Westview gave me the hands-on experience I needed to figure that out.”

For four summers, Rachel worked closely with students, helping them with their work and celebrating their progress. “I loved seeing how proud they were when they accomplished something,” she said. Field trips were another highlight. “I remember going to James Coney Island with the kids—it was such a fun way to connect with them outside the classroom.”

While Rachel always wanted to work with children, she had considered other careers, such as becoming a dance instructor. Her time at Westview solidified her desire to work with children. “One of the teachers told me, ‘You have a gift. You’re amazing at this, and you need to go into this profession.’ That encouragement stuck with me,” Rachel said.

The experience also taught her what it takes to work with children with autism. “I realized I had the patience and determination for this work. Coming from a public and Catholic school background, I had never been in an environment like this. It showed me I was meant to do this.”

One of the teachers told me, ‘You have a gift. You’re amazing at this, and you need to go into this profession.’ That encouragement stuck with me.

As a teacher, Rachel finds joy in seeing her students succeed. “I love giving them the tools to help them thrive,” she said. “Hearing stories from parents about their progress, like using words to express feelings or interacting more with family, makes it all worth it.”

Rachel encourages aspiring teachers and volunteers to embrace growth through challenges. “It’s okay to make mistakes—they’re lessons to grow from,” she said. “I used to struggle with that, but now I see mistakes as proof I’m learning. I even have a sign in my classroom that says, ‘Mistakes are proof I’m always growing.’”

Rachel’s story shows the power of volunteering to not only make a difference but also inspire a lifelong calling.

If you or someone you know is 14+ and interested in volunteering for Westview Summer Camp, visit us online to register www.westviewschool.org.