Before joining the Master Educator Team, Michelle Rush was a teacher and leader at E.L. Haynes Public Charter School in Washington, DC for seven years. Prior to that, she was a lead ESOL teacher for Fairfax County Public Schools. She has taught English to students in preschool through adults, but has spent most of her time in the classroom in grades 1-6.

Michelle was the first Director of English Language Learning for E.L. Haynes and led a team of 12 teachers, who served 228 students in preschool through 12th grade. As Director, Michelle created curriculum, coached and supervised teachers, and helped to create a series of workshops for parents navigating college in the US for the first time. Michelle is passionate about providing access to opportunities for all families, regardless of home language. During her tenure at Haynes, students consistently reached English proficiency and exited the program at rates often double the targets set for the District of Columbia.

Michelle is also on the State Title III Advisory Committee for the Office of the State Superintendent of Education and a founder of Girls Rock! DC, a program dedicated to building self- confidence and community in girls through music.

In her spare time, she is an avid musician and traveler.