Phone: 336-674-4250

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Dr. Rodney L. Boone

Principal: Dr. Rodney L. Boone

 

As I step into the role of principal at Southern Guilford High School, I am filled with excitement and determination. My journey to this point has been one of perseverance, growth, and an unwavering commitment to education. I am eager to learn more, do more, and achieve great things in my new home. I believe that together, we can continue to build on the strong foundation already in place and make Southern Guilford High School a beacon of excellence.

 

My Journey in Education

My passion for education began at a young age, rooted in my own experiences as a student. School was my sanctuary, a place where I found safety, peace, and success. Despite the challenges of growing up in poverty, where even basic necessities were not always guaranteed, I discovered a sense of stability through learning. My mother, though limited in her involvement due to her own negative school experiences, always supported my education in any way she could. I was driven by a desire to make her proud and to use education as a way to lift us out of our circumstances.

The struggles I faced at home, such as the constant threat of losing our home due to financial instability, fueled my determination to succeed. I vividly remember the relief I felt each day as I walked home from school and saw that our trailer had not been repossessed. These experiences shaped my worldview and reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education.

One of my guiding inspirations was the poem "Mother to Son" by Langston Hughes. Its message of perseverance and resilience resonated deeply with me and became a source of strength as I navigated the challenges of my youth. The voices of encouragement from my teachers and mentors, who saw my potential and nurtured it, were instrumental in my success. These educators connected with me on a personal level, creating learning opportunities that aligned with my life experiences and interests. They were my heroes, providing the emotional, academic, and financial tools I needed to overcome life's challenges.

 

Professional Experience

I have served in various educational roles for three decades, from a mathematics teacher (middle and high school) to a principal of both elementary and middle school magnet programs, and most recently, as the principal of The Early/Middle College at GTCC-Greensboro. These experiences have equipped me with the skills to take on new leadership challenges and assume positions of increasing responsibility.

As the founding principal of The Academy at Lincoln for the Performing Arts, Global Studies, and a Very Strong Academically Gifted Program, I collaborated with stakeholders to address School Improvement Plans and district goals, leading the school to achieve Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and receive recognition as a School of Progress, School of Distinction, and one of the Most Improved Schools in Guilford County.

At The Early/Middle College at GTCC-Greensboro, we achieved a 100% graduation rate multiple times and were ranked among the top 3% and 5% for EVAAS Growth in North Carolina. GTCC-Greensboro was also recognized by US News and World Report and Newsweek for excellence and most recently received recognition First Lady Jill Biden, Ph.D. visited to highlight the Classroom to Career initiative (April 16, 2024).

These roles have deepened my commitment to student-centered decision-making, asking courageous questions to improve educational outcomes, and engaging diverse teams to explore creative possibilities.

In 2023, I am honored to have been recognized as the 2023 Guilford County Schools Secondary Principal of the year. This achievement is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of all school communities, and I am grateful to be part of such an outstanding group of educators.

 

Educational Background

- Doctorate, Educational Leadership and Cultural Foundations

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, December 2016

 

- Education Specialist

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, May 2012

 

- Master of School Administration

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, May 2004

 

- Bachelor of Science, Secondary Education (Grades 9-12), with Honors

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, May 1994

 

Credentials and Certifications

- Superintendent Endorsement, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and State Board of Education (Expires June 2024)

- School Executive Credential, Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (Expires June 2024)

- Teacher Certification, Mathematics (Grades 6-12), North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (Expires June 2024)

- Early Adolescence – Mathematics, National Board Teacher Certification (Certified 2000)

 

My Vision for Southern Guilford High School

I believe that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. As the principal of Southern Guilford High School, I am committed to making student-centered decisions, asking courageous questions to improve our school's effectiveness, providing rigorous learning experiences for students so they are prepared for college and career opportunities and engaging a diverse team to explore creative possibilities.

Together, we will create a school environment where every student can thrive, every teacher can grow, and our community can be proud of the accomplishments we achieve. Together, we will strive for excellence and make a lasting impact on our community.

Now, Let’s Show The World Who We Are!

We are THE STORM!