By Terra Avilla
It brings me great joy to write about this week’s feature as she has long been, not only one of my friends, but a role model for me. If you recently went to Lassen High school, or are the parent of a high school student, then you most likely know Rachel Vincent.
To me, Lassen High School just wouldn’t feel the same without her.
Rachel teaches English but a couple of years ago started the Cadet Core Program, which I can personally tell you has made a huge difference on campus. As a veteran herself, Mrs. Vincent leads by example and helps young adults learn about the military, aiding them if they desire to later enlist after graduation.
She is a true advocate and a role model for these teens. I have witnessed her have an impact on a population of our high school that often gets overlooked. Mrs. Vincent is a very vital lifeline for those children, and we as a community should be very grateful for this woman’s heart.
As the Commander of the Explorer Post, she has also facilitated the “Lending Locker” at the high school, in which teens can visit to get free food, necessities and other items that they might not be able to afford at home. This is all accessible at the school with zero embarrassment attached.
When the locker is open, I see dozens of kids getting items, and these are kids who, before Mrs. Vincent’s efforts, might have gone without.
I asked Lassen High School Principal Morgan Nugent to describe her in three words or less and without hesitating he stated, “Always Students, First.”
I asked Vice Principal Joshua Backburn to also follow those same guidelines to describe Mrs. Vincent and he laughed as he stated “Stubborn.” Then added “passionate,” and then he paused. “I want to say loving, but loving isn’t a good enough word to describe her.”
I asked two current students the same question and they said that they “love her class,” and added that “she is hard, but good.”
This could not be more true. This woman embodies the essence of a great teacher, with an extra layer of coolness that allows her to be relatable yet passionate. Consistent, yet down to earth.
When I tell you that this woman is the real deal I mean it. This isn’t just because she is nice to me and tolerates me when I pop into her classroom. This woman is a true treasure.
Now, as a teacher she is amazing, making impacts with students. Not that long ago she received a student impact award, where she was recognized for “keeping up her energy and positivity” despite all of the online challenges 2020/2021 brought to educators.
I have no doubt that if any teacher can overcome Covid-19 teaching obstacles it’s Mrs. Vincent.
Rachel though, is so much more than just her occupation. Rachel is an avid volunteer. A great wife and a very involved mother and a very loyal friend. Mrs. Vincent will always be one of the reasons I love the place we live.
