Hello! My name is Leroy Rankin. I love teaching at Cactus Canyon Junior High! I am originally from Alabama, but have called Arizona my home for a few years now. I am married and I have two children. My favorite hobbies are bike riding and fishing.

My Education and Professional Background

Teaching is a second career for me. I graduted from Alabama State University with a Bachelors of Science in Recreational Therapy. After college I worked in Memory Care as Director of Activities. I also coach youth sports in our community. My passion for education dates far back from running summer camps to coaching and now teaching.

My Educational Philosophy

I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as a educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas. There are three elements that I believe are conducive to establishing such an environment, (1) the teacher acting as a guide, (2) allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and (3) promoting respect for all things and all people.