Ms. Taylor Rankins is the fourth grade teacher at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School. A native of Central Illinois, she lived in Peoria until sixth grade before moving with her family to Morton, where she attended junior high and graduated from Morton High School in 2019. She attended Illinois State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education in December 2025.
Ms. Rankins is eager to share her passion for learning and building meaningful relationships with her students. She believes a classroom should be a place where students feel known, supported, and encouraged to grow. She strives to create a positive classroom community that reflects the love, kindness, and wisdom God has given us.
Ms. Rankins’ favorite saint is St. Catherine of Alexandria, the saint name she chose at Confirmation. She admires St. Catherine for her courage and dedication to defending her faith. Known for her wisdom and ability to share the truth of Christianity, St. Catherine is celebrated as the patron saint of students, philosophers, and apologists. Her favorite prayer is the Our Father, which serves as a reminder of our relationship with God and His constant presence in our lives.
Faith has been an important part of Ms. Rankins’ journey. She began exploring her faith in 2014 while attending a non-denominational church and continued to grow in her relationship with God over the years. Beginning in 2024, she attended various Catholic churches throughout the Diocese of Peoria as she learned more about the Catholic faith. In September 2025, she entered OCIA to deepen her understanding and discernment, ultimately coming into full communion with the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil. She is grateful for the opportunity to continue growing in faith and sharing that joy with her students.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Rankins enjoys reading, watching her favorite comfort shows, cooking, baking, and spending time with her family and friends.