Rachel Unger has been a Miami Beach resident since she was two and a half years old. She graduated from Ransom Everglades School in 1996 before earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Miami in 2000. In 2002, she received a Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Reading and Learning Disabilities, graduating with Honors from the University of Miami. Most recently, in 2026, Rachel earned her Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, further preparing her to lead and support excellence in education.
Rachel began her teaching career in 2000 as a third-grade teacher at North Miami Elementary. She later taught at South Pointe Elementary and Temple Beth Sholom before joining North Beach Elementary in 2013. Since 2022, Rachel has been a member of the staff at The Innovative School, where she taught the school's inaugural fifth-grade class. Since 2025, she has served as Director of Teaching and Learning, providing instructional leadership, supporting curriculum development, mentoring faculty, and promoting innovative teaching practices. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about creating engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences and fostering a love of learning in her learners while strengthening instructional practices across her school community.
A member of Temple Beth Sholom since 1983, Rachel served as Co-Chair of the Social Justice Network for ten years, helping organize community service initiatives and educational programming. She also served as a Mitzvah Day Captain and Vice President on the Temple's Board of Trustees. Rachel previously served on PACT's Executive Committee as Vice President of Media Relations and Public Relations and served as Vice President of Fundraising for the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) Miami.
Rachel is also committed to addressing food insecurity in South Florida. Since 2017 she volunteers weekly with Food Rescue US South Florida, rescuing surplus food from local businesses and delivering it to organizations serving individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Rachel has been recognized throughout her career for her dedication to education and service. Her honors include the Outstanding Associate Teacher Award from the University of Miami, Rookie Teacher of the Year for MDCPS, Teacher of the Year For MDCPS, the NCJW Emerging Leader Award, and recognition as a Woman Worth Knowing in Education by the City of Miami Beach.
Outside of her professional and community commitments, Rachel enjoys living a plant-based lifestyle, exercising (especially on her Peloton bike and treadmill), reading, and spending time with her husband, Michael, their children, Max and Ellie, and their adorable dogs, Lincoln and Duke.