Big Rapids Public Schools is excited to welcome Mrs. Robin Rhodes as a new science and mathematics teacher at Big Rapids Middle School! With a unique background, a heart for encouraging students, and an enthusiasm for lifelong learning, Mrs. Rhodes is excited to begin this new chapter with the Cardinal family.
Originally from Barryton, Mrs. Rhodes graduated from Chippewa Hills High School before earning her bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from Anderson University. While her educational journey began in music, her passion for inspiring young people led her in a new direction. She recently earned her secondary science teaching endorsement through Teachers of Tomorrow and is currently working toward an additional endorsement in secondary mathematics.
Before joining Big Rapids Public Schools, Mrs. Rhodes served as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher at Reed City Middle School. Prior to that, she spent nearly three years as a school bus driver for Reed City Area Public Schools. It was behind the wheel of a school bus that she first discovered her passion for education.
"Being a school bus driver is what began my inspiration to pursue a teaching career," she shared. "I found that I deeply enjoyed encouraging and inspiring students through many aspects of their lives. I wanted to positively influence and uplift as many as I could."
Encouraged by fellow educators, Mrs. Rhodes pursued her teaching certification through Teachers of Tomorrow. While serving as a long-term substitute in a seventh-grade math classroom, she realized she had found her calling.
"I discovered that I am deeply passionate about teaching, and I am so very excited to begin this new journey!"
Mrs. Rhodes and her husband, Branden, have been married for nearly 13 years and are raising three energetic children—Connor, Abigail, and Valerie. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors, making memories as a family, and supporting their children's many sports and activities.
Outside of school, Mrs. Rhodes stays busy with church ministry, crafting, and caring for her family's collection of exotic pets. She also enjoys gardening and nurturing a wide variety of plants, putting her green thumb to good use throughout the year.
Students may also be surprised to learn that Mrs. Rhodes is a professional singer and worship leader. Whether she's singing or speaking, she enjoys using her voice to encourage and uplift others—a passion that naturally carries over into her classroom.
As she begins her first year at Big Rapids Middle School, Mrs. Rhodes looks forward to building meaningful relationships with students while helping them discover the excitement of science and mathematics. She is eager to create a classroom where curiosity is encouraged, challenges become opportunities, and every student feels supported in reaching their potential.
Please join us in giving Mrs. Rhodes a warm Cardinal welcome to Big Rapids Middle School and Big Rapids Public Schools!