JOSTENS RENAISSANCE EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

2026 RECIPIENTS

Beth Coleman

Beth Coleman is a teacher at Gloucester High School in Virginia. Beth holds degrees in English and Spanish Education from Marshall University and has been in education for 17 years. Dr. Stefan Mygas, Director of Secondary Instruction for Gloucester County Public Schools wrote in his nomination letter:

Beth is a visionary leader who understands that culture does not change by accident—it changes by design. She has created traditions, strengthened relationships, and built a shared identity at Gloucester High School that will endure well beyond her classroom. Most importantly, she has ensured that affirmation and recognition are not occasional events, but embedded practices that shape daily experiences for students and staff.

Outside of the classroom, Beth loves camping, being outdoors, and watching her kids (little and big) compete.

Joy Glaspy

Joy Glaspy is an Education Specialist and Renaissance Leadership Advisor at Las Palmas Middle School in California. Joy holds degrees from California State University, Fullerton and Azusa Pacific University, and has been in education for 26 years. Dr. Jonathan Blackmore, Interim Superintendent, Covina-Valley Unified School District, wrote in his nomination letter:

Joy Glaspy exemplifies Jostens Renaissance’s mission and vision through her sustained leadership, dedication to student-centered practices, and measurable impact on school culture. Her work at Las Palmas Middle School represents a compelling example of how intentional recognition and positive engagement can transform the educational experience for students and staff alike.

Joy enjoys spending her summer breaks traveling with her daughters, “trying everything on the menu” at restaurants, and reading.

Beth Mooney

Beth Mooney is a science teacher and Renaissance Advisor at Powell High School in Tennessee. Beth holds degrees from Maryville College and the University of Florida, and has been in education for 20 years. Samantha Grimes, teacher at Greenbrier High School, wrote in her nomination letter:

Beth Mooney exemplifies the true spirit of Renaissance by consistently placing relationships, recognition, and inclusivity at the center of everything she does. Her commitment goes far beyond programs or events—she has helped create a culture where students feel seen, celebrated, and valued for who they are and who they are becoming.

A true Renaissance woman, Beth enjoys traveling (Iceland is her favorite), axe throwing, reading, playing the piano, cultivating student leaders, and spending time with her family.

Cassandra Oostindie

Cassandra Oostindie is a BioPhysics & Sports Medicine teacher, licensed athletic trainer, PBIS coach, and HOSA Advisor at East Kentwood High School and Freshman Campus in Michigan. Cassandra holds degrees from Grand Valley State University and has been an educator for 21 years. Erin Anderson, principal of East Kentwood Freshman Campus, wrote in her nomination letter:

Cassie’s impact is evident in how students engage with school and in the overall feel of the building. Through celebrations and consistent recognition, students feel noticed for doing the right thing and understand their choices matter as members of our community. As a result, more students-including those who might otherwise be overlooked-feel included, motivated, and proud to be part of East Kentwood.

When summer break hits, you can find Cassie loading up the camper and heading to explore national parks and zoos and with her husband and two kids.

Denise Schindler

Denise Schindler is a teacher and Renaissance Director at Ritenour High School in Missouri. Denise holds degrees from University of Missouri- Columbia and has been an educator for 49 years. Amber Brinker, a former student, wrote in her nomination letter:

What makes Denise truly exceptional is her sustained commitment. For almost two decades at Ritenour High, she has been known to show up with the same energy, vision, and belief in students. Renaissance at Ritenour has never been a short-term initiative under her leadership; it has become a lasting and embedded part of the school’s culture.

Previous Educators of the Year