Northwest Learning Specialist Christy Raczkowski retires after the 2025-2026 school year. As Raczkowski, more formally known as Mrs. Raz, retires, we reflect on her teaching career and how life experiences have shaped her journey. 

   “As soon as I went to kindergarten and knew what a teacher was, I just always wanted to be a teacher,” said Raz

   In an interview with Raz, she states that she has always been a teacher at heart, more specifically, in math. Raz taught math for a total of 21 years, 16 years at Jackson High School, followed by five years at Northwest High School, before transitioning to a learning specialist for an additional six years. In addition to being a Learning Specialist, Raz taught Lift Labs, a program in which kids can receive extra help and/or support.

   “Being a Lift Labs teacher, and seeing those kids graduate, it is a smaller class size, so I get to know those kids and build a connection with them, so it feels good seeing them graduate,” said Raz

   Raz attended Michigan State University for her Bachelor’s in math and political science, and attended Eastern Michigan University for her Master’s degree. The original plan was to teach for a while while paying off student loans, and then go to law school.

   This did not go according to plan, as when the time came to apply to law schools, she had already gotten married and started her family, so she ultimately chose to stay with teaching, instead of venturing off. Raz has four children and three grandchildren, with another on the way, so in her retirement, she plans to spend more time with family. In addition, Raz will travel to New York this summer, and she wishes to see more out west. 

   “I love doing Europe and big grand trips with them [Elizabeth Hoffbougher and Tracy Powers],” said Raz

   In May of 2025, Raz was unfortunately diagnosed with breast cancer and missed the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year due to surgeries and radiation. She had another unexpected surgery in the fall, with three more planned. Raz spoke with her husband and ultimately agreed that life is too short, and at this stage in life, it should be spent with those who matter most. For Raz, these people are her friends and family.

   Overall, it is clear that Raz has played a tremendous role in our school, as she handles numerous tasks, including 504 plans and meeting with various students. As she takes on a new chapter in her life, she leaves one piece of advice to all: “Enjoy the moment, enjoy the time, as you never know where life will take you.”