North Woods art teacher Rachel Latuff was crowned Miss Minnesota during the summer and competed in the Miss America Pageant in September.

For her talent, she performed a contemporary ribbon dance to Taylor Swift’s “Out of the Woods.” Viewers described her performance as “wildly creative, passionate, highly entertaining, and a first for the Miss America stage.” 

Rachel’s talent routine was self-created, making the ribbon her signature and iconic style as a state titleholder and national contestant. 

In addition, she advocated the importance of focusing less on test scores and stressing the need to foster student acceptance and teacher affirmation.

Rachel was the only contestant of Syrian/ Lebanese descent. She nationally distinguished herself as a “teacher from the North Star state,” emulating her personal platform and leadership role both as Miss Minnesota and a high school educator.

Following are her thoughts, in her own words, on serving as Miss Minnesota and competing in the Miss America Pageant.

“Miss America is what we, as contestants, call a marathon.You are out there for two weeks challenging yourself mentally, physically and emotionally, but it is one of the most unique experiences.

“We traveled to New York City and went live on ‘Good Morning America.’ We served meals at one of New Jersey’s homeless shelters and made appearances almost every day, all while competing for the title of Miss America.

“Before finals night on ABC, all 52 women competed in three nights of preliminary competition, competing in interview, on-stage question, evening wear, swimsuit, and talent.

“I left Atlantic City with no regrets. I felt strong in every category and stood with exactly what I wanted to stand for, education and representing all teachers on the Miss America stage honorably.

“Serving as Miss Minnesota has been truly remarkable. I have so far been able to speak at a variety of events across the state about fostering acceptance, fine arts and holistic education. I have taken part in the #MeanStinks Campaign to bring bullying awareness to schools and communities. It’s on us to take over the conversation and solve the bullying problem.

“You can make the pinky promise to end bullying by painting your pinky finger blue! What’s your shade? October is anti-bullying awareness month! Blue represents awareness for the physical and emotional bruises of targeted individuals. Create a sea of awareness by posting your photos on Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Tumblr, and Facebook! I’ve been able to bring bullying awareness to various schools and help cultivate an atmosphere of acceptance.

“I have also been able to advocate for teacher wellness and appreciation. As an ongoing effort to build holistic education and character building, the Teacher of Month award was established to recognize Minnesota educators in various communities. As Miss Minnesota, I recognize the special role teachers play in the lives of children. I provide teacher recognition at various appearances, presentations, and local pageants. Through honoring teachers, I aim to inspire youth and communities to show a greater appreciation for those who make an impact on children every day. You can read about the latest Teacher of the Month by visiting my website, www.rachellatuff.weebly.com.”

“Miss Minnesota is a busy job, but it is filled with so much integrity. What I love the most is how much this title has affected the north land community for the better. It has inspired and lifted the spirits of so many children in the area. That is the greatest part of this year. This title sparks so much joy. That is the greatest gift Miss Minnesota can offer.”

You can stay updated with Miss Minnesota by following her Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Facebook accounts. Just search the username @missamericamn