This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Caitlin Heller from Annville-Cleona High School, PA. Nominator Tommy Long writes:
Miss Heller is an extremely positive member of the staff who makes outstanding connections with her students, but is also actively involved with the school in many ways to help foster and build those positive relations. Miss Heller is our cross country coach, where she’s led the girls team to back to back district championships while also leading the boys to to have runners advance to district and state. She was named the LL League Coach of the Year this year. She also coaches track and works as the scorekeeper at home wrestling matches, serves as our National Honors Society advisors and just brings a positive demeanor to our school. She has helps plan our pep rallies and other Renaissance events as well, even though she is not officially a Renaissance advisor. She is the kind of staff member every administrator hopes for when they hire someone to their district.
How long have you been involved with Renaissance?
Around two years.
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
My favorite Renaissance moment has been being a part of the regional conference. The atmosphere and the speakers throughout the day were great!
How has Renaissance impacted your school’s culture?
Renaissance has helped to make our school a more accepting, caring, and happier place. Providing ideas on making others feel appreciated (teachers, students, staff) and helping to increase school pride has created a sense of connection that has been missing the last few years.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Renaissance has reaffirmed my belief that there is so much more to teaching than content. One of the ideas echoed over and over in any Renaissance event is making others feel and know they are important.
What advice would you give to someone just starting with Renaissance?
Start out with a few small, simple ideas to implement in your school to make it feel more positive and do them well. Small victories in school culture can make a huge difference!
Caitlin will receive a tote bag and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievement.