Our Vision

Rhodes School for the Performing Arts is a model of educational excellence that develops students into people of integrity, who contribute to the good of society, and who are equipped to successfully compete in a global marketplace.

The vision is accomplished through the imparting of knowledge, the development of understanding, and the exercise of wisdom that leads to scholarship, leadership, citizenship, and character in our students.

our Founder 

Michelle L. Bonton is a veteran educator and visionary leader with a passion for children and a commitment to impact the world through a transformational school design model that brings all stakeholders to the table. She challenges stakeholders to do their part in creating community and student success through the concept of CREW.

The concept of CREW is one of accountability and ownership. Over the last 20 years, as a teacher, counselor, and school leader, Michelle has had the opportunity to impact the lives of thousands of children and their families using the CREW principle.  By providing a model, experiences and proper tools, staff, community members, and students are empowered to be active participants in their lives. This sense of ownership prompts integrity, fairness, and responsible, autonomous action.

Through servant leadership embodied in the principles of CREW, Michelle has led RSPA to tremendous growth from just 97 students and one campus in year one to more than 1,000 students across several campuses today, all of which consistently meet or exceed state and national standards for student performance.

Michelle’s professional preparation includes school leadership training and mid-management certification from Stephen F. Austin University, a Master’s degree in counseling from Prairie View A&M University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Writing from the University of Houston Downtown.  She is a prolific speaker, former radio talk show host, grant writer, and community advocate.  She also serves as an education policy specialist for state representatives.