-teacher of the year

Gilmer County Elementary School

April 15, 2024

Gilmer County Elementary School is delighted to announce Mrs. Elania Rhoades as the recipient of Teacher of the Year for the 2023-24 academic year. 

Mrs. Rhodes brings six years of dedicated teaching experience to GCES. She began her teaching career in 3rd grade, moved to 4th grade (multisubject), and for the past 2 years has served as 4th grade's Reading/Language Arts Teacher.

Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Rhoades actively contributes to the school community as a PTO officer and as a substitute for the After-School sessions. Additionally, she invests her time and expertise in various committees, including the Achievement Banquet Committee.  

When questioned about her love for teaching, Mrs. Rhoades responded with the following statement: “I love teaching for the “ah ha” moments! I love helping students find small pieces of themselves in the literature we read and analyze and helping them develop their own character and personalities along with the characters. I also love helping students become the best version of themselves they can be.”  

Mrs. Rhoades resides in Glenville, WV with her husband, Kevin.  She is also the eldest among four sisters. Farming has been a lifelong passion of hers, one she thoroughly enjoys. Additionally, Mrs. Rhoades finds fulfillment in gardening and preserving food through techniques such as canning and food preservation. Reading is another enjoyed pastime of hers. Outside of her personal interests, she actively participates in her church community, serving in roles such as an adult choir member, children's choir participant, and youth leader. 

Mrs. Rhoades will compete in the county level competition for Gilmer County Teacher of the year.