Principal's Message

Jim Rhoades - Principal

Office:

312 Sherman Ave.
Franklin, OH 45005

Phone: 937.743.8650 ext. 1624

Welcome to George H. Gerke Elementary School! I feel fortunate to serve as the principal of all of our first graders in FCS! Prior to my assignment at Gerke, I spent the last 11 years working in FCS as the principal of Anthony Wayne Elementary and have spent almost all of my 28 years in education at the elementary level as a teacher or principal. My vision is to work alongside our teachers, parents and community members to create learning experiences that are engaging and enjoyable for all of our students!

Over the years, I have had the pleasure of working with all of our first grade teachers during district professional development days. This group of teachers is absolutely phenomenal and they have a reputation for their commitment to providing a continuum of rich educational experiences that develop the learning potential and talents of each child! During these professional development days, I have witnessed their diligent planning to create high quality individual and cooperative learning experiences to support the learning of all of their students!

My mission this school year is to create a school culture that is positive and encouraging to help our students realize their learning potential while maintaining a “growth mindset” where setbacks are viewed as a necessary part of the learning process and stepping stones that eventually lead to success. To this end, I pledge to bring unique and innovative school-wide activities that build student excitement for learning.

We welcome you to visit, get involved, and share your ideas!

Sincerely,

James Rhoades