Hendricks principal retiring: B.R. Rhoads steps down after 35 years in education
By Susanna P. Barton
Hendricks Avenue Elementary School Principal Robert E. “BR” Rhoads calls his upcoming retirement a “transition to another adventure.” Neighborhood students and parents say he will be missed.
Rhoads, who has been an educator for 35 years, joined Hendricks as a principal in 2010, said his time with the school has been “a special treat on so many levels.”
“Hendricks is all about traditions — as a leader, it has been a wonderful experience honoring and celebrating the school’s past, while challenging the present and preparing for the future,” Rhoads said. “The students, parents and staff collaboratively focus on creating a compassionate community of leaders and learners — expecting, supporting and achieving success for all.”
He described Hendricks as an “exemplary learning community.”
Rhoads will retire from school administration, but said he still plans to be an advocate for education. He said he still shares a vision with other educators to help raise standards for academic excellence — but there are many challenges to overcome, particularly in the state of Florida.
“It is my intent to keep beating the drum for children through consulting or serving in some capacity as a change agent for what is needed to reach and teach all students in the global society in which we live today,” Rhoads said. “The thought of not being the leader of a school is difficult to think about, however I know a person can lead from any chair.”
PTA officials are eager to see who will take over the school this summer.
“Hendricks has truly been blessed to have had the outstanding leadership of Principal Rhoads — he has embraced our school, our kids and all of us parents,” said Stephanie Helton, PTA President at the local elementary school. “His contributions, not only to our school, but to the lives of our children are immeasurable — he will be sorely missed.”
A new principal for Hendricks Avenue Elementary School should be announced in June, according to Duval County Public School spokeswoman, Jill Johnson.
Helton said local parent leadership hopes the new principal will “build upon the vision set forth by B.R.”
“We are excited to blend our beloved Hendricks’ traditions with a new perspective,” she said.
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