Rhodes happy to be back in class

“I've always missed being in the classroom and knew I would come back,” said new West Florence chemistry teacher Susan Rhodes.

Rhodes left the district office, where she was the Science Curriculum Coordinator, at the end of last school year and has joined the Knights. Rhodes said she has always loved teaching and being able to explain and help her students understand, which is where she gets her motivation.

Rhodes is married with two kids and is originally from Michigan. She attended North Carolina State University just after their win of the 2017 championship. Rhodes said if she couldn't be a teacher she would most likely be a lawyer/federal public assistance, like her son.

“I would say my teaching style is a helpful, enjoyable, and easy way to make education fun and more understandable,” Rhodes said.

Rhodes said that she thinks she makes a big difference with her kids because she finds explaining things enjoyable and makes it as easy as possible for her students to get the information they need while creating that imagery in their heads.

Having a role model is important for most people and teachers often act as one to their students.

“I would say a role model for me is someone who supports and loves you no matter what,” Rhodes said.

Rhodes said a big influence/role model for her was her father, because he always supported her; he was also a scientist which could be where she found her love for science.

One of Rhodes' favorite pastimes is traveling. She has been to many places including the Panama Canal and the Galapagos Island. She also enjoys listening to her favorite radio station, 70s on 70.