This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Beth Tanner from Oakbrook Middle School in South Carolina. Nominator Julia Solustri wrote:
Beth Tanner epitomizes empathy on a daily basis, making a lasting impact on our school community through her unwavering kindness and deep understanding of others. She is a beacon of compassion, consistently demonstrating the ability to connect with parents, students, and fellow Staffulty members in a way that fosters trust, growth, and support. Beth’s empathy is not just a momentary display—it is a way of life. She actively listens, validates emotions, and approaches every situation with patience and understanding. Even in the most challenging moments, she is able to extend grace and find forgiveness, seeing the best in others and offering second chances when needed. Her ability to put herself in another’s shoes makes her a role model to all who have the privilege of knowing her. Parents appreciate Beth’s ability to communicate with care, ensuring that every family feels heard and valued. Students admire her for her warmth and approachability, knowing that they have an advocate who believes in them. Fellow Staffulty members look up to her as a source of encouragement, support, and inspiration. Her presence creates a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond her classroom walls. Beth often considers her empathy and kindness to be a fault, but we see them as some of her greatest strengths. She embodies the heart of our school, and we are grateful for the countless ways she enriches our community each and every day.
What do you teach? Are you involved with anything else at your school?
I am the 6th Grade Assistant Principal. I am involved in everything 🙂
What is something you appreciate about your school’s culture?
Our school has worked tirelessly the last three years to change a negative culture into a positive culture where students and staff want to come to school. We have a staff that is truly a family, and I love getting to see the 7th and 8th grade students helping teach the new 6th graders to embrace our motto “Above the Rest.”
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
My favorite moment is my first rally at the Jostens Renaissance Global Conference (JRGC) last year. That was my first time getting to attend JRGC. It was amazing seeing so many people committed to climate and culture in their schools.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Renaissance has made education fun again for me. I get to see the impact that what we are doing at our school has on our students on a daily basis. I have also learned to get out of my comfort zone and try new activities that I never would have participated in before Renaissance.
What is something you are “All In” for inside or outside of school?
I am “All In” for commitment to doing everything that I can for others. I have an amazing husband and three handsome sons who keep me busy outside of school. Inside school, I am committed to the staff and students who are my “work family.”
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to become more empathetic?
The biggest advice I can give is to really “listen to listen” and not immediately trying to formulate a solution. I still remember the first time that I truly understood what this means. It was my first year of teaching, and I had a student who was always in trouble for disrespect. I finally pulled him in the hall one day and asked what was going on. He explained that he had to parent his siblings every day after school and was having trouble switching back to the role of the student. From that moment on, I have tried to approach every situation with open eyes and listening ears to truly hear the Staffulty and students rather than just trying to come up with a quick fix.
Beth will each receive a coffee tumbler and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievements.