Rachel Maleski, the Principal of Global Academy at ASU Prep, has committed her life to education. Inspired by her mother, a preschool teacher, and encouraged by her AP Literature teacher, Mr. George Yaghoobian, Maleski fell in love with teaching and followed her passion for creating impactful learning experiences.
From a young age, Maleski embraced learning opportunities with enthusiasm. During high school, she excelled in honors and AP courses while engaging in band, drama, yearbook, Model UN and the National Honor Society.
Her curiosity extended beyond extracurriculars into technology, where she participated in a zero-hour independent study dedicated to integrating tech into education. There, Maleski and her classmates wired their school’s first-ever LAN network—a pivotal experience that showcased her ability to manage a flexible schedule and highlighted her early interest in interactive learning.
These formative experiences, rooted in strong time management and a passion for learning, paved the way for Maleski’s future leadership. They laid the groundwork for her ability to blend technology with innovative and engaging online education, transforming the learning process for students worldwide.
A journey of professional growth
Maleski earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from West Chester University and later completed her Master’s in Education at Arizona State University while living in Tucson. Her career began in Northern Virginia as a high school English and Journalism teacher. However, she soon took a bold leap with her husband, moving to Tucson without knowing anyone locally.
Her career evolved through various roles, including instructional coach, district-level mentor and Dean of Students at an elementary school. These experiences deepened her understanding of traditional education within physical classrooms while sharpening her vision for the potential of flexible online education.
A recommendation from her friend Alison Hernandez eventually led her to ASU Prep, where she began a part-time role with the AZVTI team in 2020 before transitioning to a full-time position in 2021.
At ASU Prep, Maleski has flourished in an environment defined by innovation and curiosity. The school’s core values—curiosity, disruption, collaboration and individuality—resonate deeply with her, particularly the focus on disruption.
“I love that at ASU Prep, we’re tasked with disrupting the educational landscape to provide equitable access to high-quality education to all students,” Maleski said.
The birth and growth of Global Academy
Global Academy at ASU Prep grew from ASU’s mission to impact both local and global communities positively. Through years of partnership with schools worldwide, the organization laid the groundwork for the academy’s launch.
One key milestone came when ASU Prep partnered with the East Baton Rouge Parish School System to serve virtual students. Maleski stepped in as the instructional leader, guiding the creation of a school-within-a-school model to meet the unique needs of these online learners.
“It was an opportunity to stay curious and see how this offshoot of ASU Prep Digital could function independently. Thus, the advent of Global Academy,” she said.
Today, Global Academy is a fully accredited, diploma-granting school offering NCAA and California A-G-approved courses. Serving students across the globe, it provides flexible online learning environments where students can complete online classes at their own pace and schedule, breaking away from the constraints of in-person, traditional classrooms.
Emphasizing the many options for online students navigating their courses, Maleksi shared, “I love that Global Academy serves students from such varying experiences—whether it’s a student miles away from ASU’s Tempe campus or someone in Taiwan, whether they’re taking one course or pursuing a dual diploma from Moscow.”
An adventurous spirit
Maleski’s approach to education reflects her adventurous and forward-thinking nature. At home, her family embraces the motto: “Adventure!” Whether camping, exploring new restaurants, visiting museums or taking impromptu road trips, she prioritizes memorable experiences with her loved ones.
Her professional life mirrors this spirit of exploration and inclusivity. Maleski remains committed to creating equitable and innovative learning opportunities for students worldwide.
“Education is the great equalizer, and I’ve always felt drawn to making an impact in my community, whether locally or globally,” Maleski said. “I’m passionate about ensuring there’s a seat for every student at the table and equipping all students to feel as if they belong there.”
Her colleague Alison Hernandez praised her, saying, “Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Rachel grow from an exceptional educator into an inspiring principal. Her dedication, vision and unwavering commitment to her school community continue to make a profound impact.”
Transforming online education with Global Academy
Global Academy at ASU Prep exemplifies the benefits of online learning, offering a flexible learning environment where students flourish on their own schedules. With interactive online courses, learners immerse themselves in dynamic educational experiences, and high school students gain the chance to earn university credits through forward-thinking online programs.
Join an online information session today to explore Global Academy’s nationally accredited part-time and full-time programs. Discover how this innovative online school for grades 6–12 can give you the flexibility to learn at your own pace while unlocking the limitless possibilities of online education.
