Salute to Our Great Hearts Veterans: Paige Rankin

Great Hearts Academies are pleased to recognize, celebrate, and honor some of the amazing Veterans in our schools who have not only served our country in the military, but have continued to do outstanding work to support the students of Great Hearts.

Paige Rankin is in her first year with Great Hearts as an Apprentice Teacher on the second-grade team at Archway Classical Academy North Phoenix.  She works alongside Lead Teacher Morgan Schwanz.

Rankin served in the United States Marine Corps from 2017 to 2021 where she reached the rank of Corporal.  She was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma in Arizona and had many opportunities to travel for detachments across the country as well as the privilege to deploy for 6 months to Bahrain, an island country situated on the Persian Gulf, in 2019.  “My MOS (military job or role) was 6046, which was Maintenance Administration Data Specialist. My daily job consisted of tracking the maintenance data performed on the aircraft, tracking pilot flight hours, and maintaining the updates of technical publications used by aircraft maintainers to ensure the safety of our flight personnel Marines.”

According to many of the Veteran teachers we’ve spoken with, the military and teaching have much more in common than people may think.  “The goal in both is not only about learning, but to make everyone the best version of themselves, and to become an effective member of society. My military background has enhanced the way I look at a team mentality. Working together as teachers and as a classroom family builds trust and is crucial for achieving goals. In the military and in the classroom, many walks of life come together to share common goals, build friendships, and reach a sense of mission accomplishment.”

Rankin says she has thoroughly enjoyed her time at Great Hearts.  “I am proud to say I have had the opportunity to serve my country and can now begin my journey of developing young hearts and minds.”

“When I interviewed Ms. Rankin, I knew she would be an excellent addition to ANP this year,” said Headmaster Geri Kirby.  “Ms. Rankin is respected and loved by her scholars and colleagues at ANP.  I am impressed by her strong work ethic and dedication to the Great Hearts mission.”

Please join Great Hearts in honoring Veterans like Paige Rankin and many others who have served our country.

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts?  Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.