This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Lucia Marinez from Indio High School in California. Nominator James Adkins wrote:
Lucia is an exceptional educator and leader who consistently goes above and beyond in service of our school community. She wears many hats on campus, serving as our Activities Director, ASB Advisor, AVID Coordinator and as a valued member of our leadership team. In each of these roles, Lucia demonstrates an unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep dedication to both student and staff success. Lucia is someone you can always count on. She approaches every responsibility with professionalism, positivity, and a solutions-oriented mindset. More importantly, she goes beyond expectations to ensure that others are supported and set up for success. Whether she is mentoring students, collaborating with colleagues, or leading campus initiatives, Lucia’s impact is both meaningful and far-reaching. Her actions speak louder than words—Lucia leads by example and inspires those around her through her work ethic, integrity, and genuine care for the school community. She embodies the very best of what it means to be a Rajah, and her influence continues to elevate our campus in countless ways.
What do you teach? Are you involved with anything else at your school?
ASB- Leadership Class (Student Council) , AVID Teacher/Coordinator, Friday Night Live Advisor
What is something you appreciate about your school’s culture?
The thing I appreciate most about our school’s culture is that it is a warm and welcoming place where there is something for everyone to feel connected to. Every student has a way to belong and students demonstrate PRIDE every day. (Positivity, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence)
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
A favorite Renaissance moment is our 1st day Pep Rallies, which we do on the very first day of school and again on the very first day of second semester. We are able to set the tone, engage all of the students, and make everyone feel happy to be at school. The first day festivities give all of our student leaders a chance to collaborate and create a moment for their classmates.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Renaissance has personally affected me by filling my bucket and providing me with a network of amazing educators to collaborate with. It has also given me a lens that looks for the best in students, staff, and our school community. Finding ways to spotlight all of the things that make our school a great place to be. It has also provided me with meaningful curriculum that I use with all of my classes.
What is something that helps you feel Better Than Good?
One thing that helps me feel Better Than Good is living in GRATITUDE! It’s a privilege to do this job and work with such amazing students to make a positive impact. I am grateful for all of it… the big celebrations, the small ones, the fun, the work, and everything in between.
What is something you do to help others feel Better Than Good?
I help others feel Better Than Good by finding the best in them, then shining a spotlight on their strengths. It’s a way of saying I believe in you, even if you don’t believe in yourself. I provide a safe space for students and Staffulty to be themselves and shine in an authentic way.
Who inspires you?
My students inspire me more than anything. Their passion, creativity, dedication, and commitment to making our school the best it can be is remarkable. They understand that they have the opportunity to make a difference through their daily actions, no matter how big or small and that inspires me and gives me tremendous hope for our future.
Lucia will receive a coffee tumbler and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievements.