For nearly two decades, Rebecca Dewald has been a powerful and positive force in education, shaping young minds, encouraging growth, and making lasting impacts in and out of the classroom. Currently in her 13th year at Mooreland Junior High and High School, Dewald teaches Special Education to students in grades 7 through 12 and brings a wealth of experience from teaching a variety of subjects, including Reading, English, Geography, Gifted Education, and Character Education.
Her journey into teaching was inspired by her own experience growing up and moving from school to school. “I saw how much influence a teacher could have—not just in lectures, but in building confidence and inspiring students to want more out of life,” she said. “I just wanted to be a part of that.”
One teacher in particular had a lasting impact. Dewald recalls a history and sociology teacher whose deep classroom discussions helped her think beyond her immediate surroundings. “We actually lived through 9/11 in his class, my senior year. He told us to write down every detail—that we had just lived through history. It changed everything for me.”
Now with 20 years of teaching experience, Dewald believes success in the classroom requires flexibility, creativity, and resilience. “Teaching means being ready for anything and finding new ways to push students when they want to give up,” she said. “My favorite moments are when I see a student turn a negative situation into one of growth. That’s what makes this career so rewarding—it keeps me young. Ha!”
Her favorite piece of advice came from a former principal: “Be present. Be positive. You never know what moment might change a student’s attitude.”
Outside of the classroom, Dewald cherishes time with her husband, Tanner, and their three kids—Conner, Piper, and Sawyer. Whether it’s cheering at the ball field, traveling, painting, fishing, reading, or growing in faith, family is at the heart of everything she does.
Rebecca Dewald lives by a powerful reminder for all educators: “Your purpose is not the thing you do. It is the thing that happens to others when you do what you do.” And by that standard, her impact is undeniable.
