andrea_rinehart.jpgAndrea Rinehart

Special Education Teacher

arinehart@blueskyschool.org

Where do you live?

I live in St. Paul with my husband, and we have a baby coming in March 2010.

Why did you become a teacher?

I chose to become a teacher because I wanted to help kids who were having a hard time in school. I’ve always cheered for the “underdog” and as a special education teacher I feel like I can help those kids who others thought wouldn’t succeed in school, and prove them wrong!

BlueSky sets itself apart from other online schools in the state because of the constant daily interaction with students.

Why did you choose BlueSky?

I chose to work at BlueSky because they are doing something that no other school is doing right now and I wanted to be a part of it. I love the idea of going to school online and I wish it had been an option for me when I was in school. BlueSky sets itself apart from other online schools in the state because of the constant daily interaction with students. As a teacher, the flexibility that I am allowed at BlueSky is something I can’t get any other school.

What do you think makes BlueSky special?

BlueSky is special because they have a staff dedicated to meeting student needs. The teachers create their own curriculum, which allows them to be intimately involved in the classes they teach. Students receive the attention they need through daily phone calls, e-mails, tutoring sessions, and teacher meetings. Just as teachers need flexibility to be the best educators possible, many students also need flexibility in order to be successful. Students are given that flexibility at BlueSky.

What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?

When I’m not teaching, I have lots of hobbies that keep me busy. I love to spend time outside, playing tennis, biking, hiking, and playing/watching just about any sport. I love to take mini-vacations with my husband. I am a big movie buff and enjoy seeing independent movies at the Landmark Theaters in Minneapolis. I also really enjoy the beautiful houses in my neighborhood and attend open houses just for fun. I have 3 nieces and 1 nephew whom I see as often as I can. Lately a lot of my time has gone to preparing for the arrival of our baby, including knitting projects, looking for great deals on baby items, and attending classes.

If there were one thing you could tell people about BlueSky, what would it be?

It’s the best job I’ve ever had.

Education

  • B.S., Special Education, St. Cloud State University
  • Minnesota Teaching License: K-12 Learning Disabilities, K-12 Emotional Behavior Disorders