Rachel Harrington, PhD

Rachel Harrington joined the College of Education’s elementary education degree-completion program as a professor of education in 2025.

Prior to her arrival, she worked for 17 years in various capacities as a professor of mathematics education at Western Oregon University, serving for six years as director of the institution’s Center for the Advancement of Paraeducators and, from 2014 to 2024, as coordinator of its Elementary Mathematics Specialist Program.

She formerly served as coordinator of Western Oregon’s Master of Arts in Teaching Program (2010-13, 2024-2025). She’s also gained experience working as a professional development provider for a number of school districts both locally and nationally. Her areas of expertise include mathematics education and effective professional development of teachers.

Harrington earned both a PhD (2008) and master’s degree (2007) in mathematics education from Oregon State University, and also earned a bachelor’s degree in the same discipline from Western Washington University (1997).

She lives in Corvallis with her husband, Ryan, and children Seamus and Ellie. She attends Peace Lutheran Church in Philomath. Rachel enjoys gardening, camping, and spending time in Alaska with her extended family.