Rhonda Elliott has worn many hats here at Rock Solid – but you might not be aware of just how many! With her birthday around the corner (November 21st), we’re reflecting on how God has weaved her story into the fabric of our school.
Rhonda’s gift and passion is teaching. Originally from Renton, Washington, she and her husband, Joe, moved to Colorado in 1999. She taught in public school for nine years prior to having her three children, Hannah, Abby and Joe. “The Lord definitely called me to homeschool,” Rhonda reminisces. “It wasn’t something I planned to do.” After homeschooling through eighth grade, Joe and Rhonda discovered Rock Solid for their children. At the time, RSCA was only a high school. They served on the board for five years, and Rhonda became the first middle school teacher when seventh and eighth grades were added.
Rock Solid has played an important role in the life of the Elliott family. In addition to all three of their children graduating from RSCA, two of her kids have followed in their mama’s footsteps. Abby teaches our kindergarteners, and Hannah, teaches our second graders. “I have the wonderful privilege of teaching with my daughters in this special school,” Rhonda shares. “My mama's heart is full!”
In 2016, Rhonda became the principal at Rock Solid. It was at this time that new doors opened. “I very clearly heard God telling me that we needed to add elementary grades to Rock Solid,” Rhonda recalls. “It was a real grassroots effort. I had no idea where to start. We had no space for elementary - but I trusted and obeyed!”
As we can all attest, the vision God gave Rhonda has most certainly come to fruition. “One of the biggest thrills of my life was seeing 14 elementary students walk through the doors of Rock Solid in the fall of 2018! It was a labor of love!”
In 2020, Rhonda was drawn back to her original passion - teaching! She enjoys instructing our Rock Stars, helping them discover who they are in Christ, and teaching them that their value comes from Him.
She shares, “I want to use my experiences to mentor families, guide students in becoming critical thinkers, life-long learners, curious explorers, and world-changers … and of course, teaching reading, "r"iting, and 'rithmatic!”
A few things you might not know about Rhonda: Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with family and two crazy dogs, Shelby and Stella. She is always up for a good book or movie, and loves to worship. Rhonda and her husband have even recently started ballroom dancing.
Rhonda Elliott has been and continues to be weaved into the tapestry of Rock Solid – and we are grateful for her solid leadership, passionate teaching, and ability to share Jesus with everyone she meets. Happy birthday, Rhonda!
