Meet the Teacher

Welcome to fifth grade!

My name is Rachel Harrington, and I am proud to be a teacher at Cyrus J. Morris Elementary School. I earned my bachelor's degree and teaching credential from Cal Poly Pomona and my masters degree from National University. 

I’m thrilled to begin my tenth year teaching fifth grade! It’s a true privilege to be part of a school that feels like home. In addition to teaching, I proudly serve as the coach of our CJ Morris Science Olympiad Team, which earned Gold Medals at the 2024 and 2025 Los Angeles Regional Science Olympiad Tournaments. Watching our students grow, collaborate, and succeed—both in the classroom and beyond—is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.

I am a passionate educator committed to equity and the belief that all students can learn and thrive when given the opportunity to share their strengths. I prioritize creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment where every student feels valued and accepted. Building strong relationships with students and families is at the heart of my teaching philosophy, as I believe collaboration with families is essential for student success.

As a lifelong learner, I continuously seek opportunities to grow and refine my teaching practice. I recently completed a two-year program with the Cotsen Foundation, where I collaborated with fellow educators and mentors to deepen my instructional strategies. I also recognize the vital role technology plays in modern education. As a Google Certified Teacher, I actively integrate technology into the classroom to enhance learning and engagement. Ultimately, my goal is to empower students, celebrate their individuality, and help them reach their full potential..

Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two children. We recently lost our beloved German Shepherd, Maddy, after 13 wonderful years, and we miss her every day. Last year, we adopted two Tortoiseshell kittens who have filled our home with love and excitement.

I’m a HUGE Harry Potter fan, which is why one of our favorite places to visit is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. We also enjoy going for walks, exploring new places, and taking family trips. You can often find me at local bookstores or Starbucks, enjoying a cup of coffee and a good book!