Ikheem Rhodes is an accomplished and passionate education leader, currently serving as the Principal of Russell Byers Charter School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With a distinguished career that spans over 15 years in education, Mr. Rhodes is known for his empathetic leadership, dedication to academic excellence, and commitment to creating a positive and inclusive school environment. Mr. Rhodes holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Principal Certification (K-12) from Cabrini University, and a Master of Education in Elementary Education (K-6) from Cheyney University. His academic foundation is complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Johnson C. Smith University, which has enriched his approach to effective communication and stakeholder engagement.
Before his current role, Mr. Rhodes served as Assistant Principal at Universal Institute Charter School, where he played a pivotal role in significantly improving student outcomes. His leadership led to an 94% reduction in out-of-school suspensions and substantial increases in proficiency rates across science, math, and English language arts.
His ability to analyze data and implement targeted interventions has been a hallmark of his success in fostering academic growth. In addition to his administrative roles, Mr. Rhodes has made significant contributions as a science instructional coach, mentor, and facilitator of professional development. He has provided district-wide training in classroom management and instructional strategies, helping educators enhance their practice and better support student learning.
Mr. Rhodes’s expertise also extends to school climate management, where he has guided schools through implementing restorative behavioral interventions and coordinating targeted support services for students. His work in these areas has been instrumental in creating safe and nurturing environments where students can thrive both academically and socially. Mr. Rhodes is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, reflecting his ongoing dedication to leadership, service, and community engagement. His broad skill set, which includes strategic planning, teacher performance analysis, and program development, underscores his capacity to drive meaningful change in educational settings. As Principal of Russell Byers Charter School, Ikheem Rhodes continues to inspire and lead with a vision centered on educational excellence, equity, and a deep commitment to the success of every student.