FEATURED STORIES

Climate and culture current events, school spotlights and research-based articles on what students need to succeed are all Jostens Renaissance® Education's featured stories. Check back often to see what's happening across the country.

Something great happening at your school? Send your stories — or story ideas — to [email protected]!

Want to see someone from your school featured here? Nominate someone who exemplifies Renaissance values and makes a difference in your school for Student and Staffulty of the Month!

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March 20, 2023

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: April – Caitlin Heller

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Caitlin Heller from Annville-Cleona High School, PA. Nominator Tommy Long writes: How long have you been involved…

March 20, 2023

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: April – Gracie Price

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Gracie Price from Brazoswood High School, TX. Nominator Rita Pintavalle writes: How long have you been involved…

February 28, 2023

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: March – Mary Alice Kane

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mary Alice Kane from Flanagan-Cornell High School, IL. Nominator Amber Carls writes: How long have you been…

February 28, 2023
student of the month

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: March – Victor Smith Rogel

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Victor Smith Rogel from Shelbyville Central High School, TN. Nominator Jeremy Bryant writes: How long have you…

January 27, 2023
autumn

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: February – Autumn Sneath

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Autumn Sneath from Central Mountain Middle School, PA. Nominator Christina Onuskanich writes: How long have you been…

January 26, 2023
Megan Sisk

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: February – Megan Sisk

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Megan Sisk from Chisholm Trail High School, TX. Nominator Carla Hardy writes: How long have you been…

December 12, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: January – Judy Perrine

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty™ of the Month is Judy Perrine of Kingman Academy of Learning Middle School in Kingman, AZ.  Their nominator Tony Victory wrote:…

December 12, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: January – Rachel Kromke

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Rachel Kromke from Rockford High School in Rockford, MI. Nominator Lisa Avram writes: How long have you…

November 14, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: December – Gabrielle Staman

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Gabrielle Staman from Warrior Run High School in Turbotville, PA. Nominator Andrea Landis writes: How long have…

November 14, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: December – Stephanie Jess

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty™ of the Month is Stephanie Jess of Brazoswood High School in Clute, TX.  Their nominator Rita Pintaville wrote: How long have…

October 27, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER- KAMDEN EVANS

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Kamden Evans from Ottawa High School in Ottawa, KS. Nominator Kelly Whittaker writes: How long have you…

October 24, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: November – Conner Mattingly

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty™ of the Month is Conner Mattingly of Henderson County High School in Henderson, KY.  Their nominator wrote: How long have you…

April 26, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MAY- DIAMOND EDWARDS-EBERE

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Diamond Edwards-Ebere from Desert Ridge Academy in Indio, CA. Nominator Terresa Amidei writes (lightly edited): “Diamond is…

April 26, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MAY- ROXANE WINSTON

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Roxane Winston at Centennial High School in Peoria, AZ.  Their nominator wrote: “Roxane brings a burst of…

April 6, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: APRIL- JULIANNA CLOUSER

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Julianna Clouser from Kingman Academy of Learning High School in Kingman, AZ. Nominator Erin Schreurs writes (lightly…

April 6, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: APRIL- RYAN CLEMENTS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Ryan Clement at Annville Cleona High School in Annville, PA.  His colleague, Tommy Long, writes: “Mr. Clements builds…

March 3, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MARCH – LIZZIE HERRING

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Lizzie Herring at Mayde Creek High School in Katy, TX.  Jostens representative Mike Sosa writes (lightly edited):…

March 3, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MARCH – EVAN ZELENY

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Evan Zeleny from Del City High School in Del City, OK. Nominator Kristy Cooper writes (lightly edited):…

February 3, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – AVERY SOLTESZ

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Avery Soltesz from Warrior Run High School in Turbotville, PA. Nominator Andrea Landis writes (lightly edited): “Avery…

February 3, 2022

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – ERIC LILLIS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Eric Lillis at Kingman Academy of Learning High School in Kingman, AZ. Nominator Erin Schreurs writes (lightly…

November 30, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – CHASE CHATFIELD

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Chase Chatfield at Vancleave Middle School in Vancleave, MS. Nominator Ashley Allred writes (lightly edited): “Chase Chatfield…

November 30, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – GRACE ANKENBRAND

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Grace Ankenbrand from Cane Bay High School in Summerville, SC. Nominator Debra Summers writes (lightly edited): “A…

November 3, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – MADILYN SUGARS

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Madilyn Sugars from Flanagan Cornell High School in Flanagan, IL. Nominator Amber Carls writes (lightly edited): “Madilyn…

November 3, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – FLORINA MERTURI

This month we are pleased to honor a yearbook adviser, Florina Merturi from Academy of Information Technology & Engineering in Connecticut, because of her ability to…

September 30, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER – KELLY WHITTAKER

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Principal Kelly Whittaker at Ottawa High School in Ottawa, Kansas. Nominator Jennifer Kane writes (lightly edited): “Mrs.…

September 30, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER – ABBY MOONEY

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Abby Mooney from Powell High School in Powell, TN. Nominator Julie Liford writes (lightly edited): “Abby has…

May 6, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MAY – LEIGH CATTOLICO-YAGO

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Leigh Cattolico-Yago at Fountain Woods Elementary in Burlington, NJ. Nominator and Renaissance Hall of Fame educator Tina…

May 6, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MAY – ELLA FRYER

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Ella Fryer from Bixby High School in Bixby, OK. Nominator DeWayne Patterson writes (lightly edited): “During the…

April 16, 2021

Scholarships for Distinguished Young Women

Looking for a scholarship opportunity? One BILLION dollars in scholarships?! That’s what we make available to high school girls every year at Distinguished Young Women. As…

April 9, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: APRIL – FATIMA PULIDO

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Fatima Pulido from La Puente High School in La Puente, California. Nominator Joey Zamora writes (lightly edited):…

April 9, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: APRIL – TERRESA AMIDEI

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Terresa Amidei from Desert Ridge Academy in Indio, CA. Nominator Pamela Alles writes (lightly edited): “Terresa Amidei…

March 31, 2021

Renaissance Kit Program

The Renaissance Kit program is currently on pause. We do have a few past kits available, and many of the items from the kits are available…

March 29, 2021

Courageous Conversations

March 4, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MARCH – DENISE PRIVOTT

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Denise Privott from Woodrow Wilson Middle School in Middletown, Connecticut. Nominator Normand Laflamme writes (lightly edited): “Denise…

March 4, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MARCH – EMMA LITVINCHUK

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Emma Litvinchuk from Nipomo High School in Nipomo, California. Nominator Sammie Cervantez writes (lightly edited): “Emma is…

February 24, 2021

Educator Summits and Equity Panels (SY 2020-2021)

February 2, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – ABRAHAM PANJSHIRI

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Abraham Panjshiri from North Stafford High School in Stafford, Virginia. Nominator Andrea Marra writes (lightly edited): “Abraham…

February 2, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – MARY ALEXANDER

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mary Alexander from Shadow Hills High School in Indio, California. Nominator Gabriel Fajardo writes (lightly edited): “Mrs.…

January 7, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: JANUARY – SHERRY PURDY

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Sherry Purdy from Cane Bay High School in Summerville, SC. Nominator Katherine Nobles writes: “Even during online…

January 7, 2021

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: JANUARY – SAM BLUMBERGER

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Sam Blumberger from Bacon Academy High School in Colchester, Connecticut. Nominator Marlene Blumberger writes (lightly edited): “Sam…

December 9, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – OLIVIA CAMACHO

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Olivia Camacho from Deland High School in Florida. Nominator Mendi Camacho writes (lightly edited): “Due to COVID-19…

December 9, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – MANDELE DAVIS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mandelé Davis from Eisenhower High School in Houston, TX. Nominator Mike Sosa wrote that even in her…

November 17, 2020

Virtual Backgrounds

Talking with others on video calls gives us a glimpse into their living situations. Some educators as well as students might prefer not to share their…

November 2, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – STEPHANIE JESS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Stephanie Jess from Brazoswood High School in Clute, TX. Nominator Rita Pintaville describes how she recognizes everyone…

November 2, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – SUMMER CHILDRESS

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Summer Childress from Pascagoula High School in Mississippi. Nominator Leigh Hanna writes (lightly edited): “Summer is a…

October 20, 2020

Reconnect: Three Simple Truths for Creating a Unified School Culture

Are your faculty and staff overwhelmed, frustrated, and struggling? Are your students struggling to connect with one another, with motivation, and with their teachers? As a…

September 18, 2020

Virtual Back-to-School Night

Walker Junior High School in La Palma, CA From Jennifer Sasai, Jostens Renaissance Hall of Fame Member Here is the Google Site I created for our…

September 1, 2020

Using Renaissance Resources for Remote/Distance Learning

While our resources have been developed for in-class use, many of them can be adapted for remote or distance learning as well. The key, as always,…

September 1, 2020

TIPS FOR BUILDING COMMUNITY REMOTELY

With so many students and staffulty separated and divided into cohorts, schools are challenged to find ways to foster relationships and build a sense of community.…

July 31, 2020

Jostens Renaissance Webinars

Jostens Renaissance is proud to provide to you a series of webinars covering relevant topics in education. Please contact us at [email protected] with any questions or…

July 20, 2020

JRVC 2020 – FAQ and Chat Resources

Click on the link below to open the PDF containing answers to Frequently Asked Questions and compiled ideas from the Wednesday breakout sessions: Frequently Asked Questions…

July 16, 2020

JRVC 2020 – Certificate and Agenda

Click on the links below for documentation you can use to submit for CEU’s. Participation Certificate Participation Certificate with Editable Name Field Jostens Renaissance Virtual Conference…

July 13, 2020

JRVC Breakout Links

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 Educators: click the link below to join the breakout of your choice. The content is the same, but panelists will be educators…

July 6, 2020

GRADUATION INNOVATION: CAMPUS WALK-THROUGH

By Jamie Mooring One in a series of success stories from Class of 2020 graduations, when the need for innovation brought unexpected benefits and connections.  …

July 6, 2020

GRADUATION INNOVATION: CITY HALL DRIVE-THROUGH

By Melanie Lindsey One in a series of success stories from Class of 2020 graduations, when the need for innovation brought unexpected benefits and connections. Planning,…

June 4, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: JUNE – GRACE ANDERSON

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Grace Anderson from Kennebecasis Valley High School in Quispamsis, New Brunswick, Canada. Her nominator Melissa Wright writes…

June 4, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: JUNE – MARK BROWN

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mark Brown from Newberg Senior High School in Newberg, OR. Nominator Melissa Wright describes how he made…

May 19, 2020

MOTIVATION MONDAY: MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Featuring an interview with three guests in a Facebook Live presentation on May 18, 2020.…

May 15, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY FINALE

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

May 11, 2020

MOTIVATION MONDAY: SCHOOL CULTURE WITH PHIL BOYTE

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Featuring an interview with school culture expert Phil Boyte in a Facebook Live presentation on…

May 8, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY: GRADUATION CEREMONIES

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

May 6, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MAY – WAYNE POWERS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Wayne Powers from Foothill Technology High School in Ventura, CA. Nominator Devin Franke describes how he motivates…

May 6, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MAY – SYDNIE AILEY

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Sydnie Ailey from Powell High School in Powell, Tennessee. Her nominator Beth Mooney writes, “Even though she…

May 4, 2020

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Featuring ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live…

May 1, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY: CELEBRATING SENIORS

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

April 27, 2020

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Featuring ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live…

April 24, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY: ALTERNATIVE CEREMONIES

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

April 20, 2020

EDUCATOR APPRECIATION

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Featuring ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live…

April 17, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY: VIRTUAL CEREMONIES

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

April 13, 2020

STUDENT PERSPECTIVES

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance student and educator community and shared in a Facebook…

April 10, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY: VARIATIONS ON THE PHYSICAL CEREMONY

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

April 8, 2020

REMOTE LEARNING DAILY CHECK-IN PROMPTS

Share these prompts to encourage your students to do something a little different each day they are learning remotely. Each prompt includes: A check-in question to…

April 6, 2020

DISTANCE LEARNING: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

April 6, 2020

RENAISSANCE AND RESTORATIVE PRACTICES

Relationships: The Most Important Piece of Our Renaissance Framework By: Sara Cowey, Activities Director, Leadership Teacher, and Renaissance Coordinator at San Mateo High School, San Mateo,…

April 3, 2020

GRADUATION FRIDAY: PROTECT THE CEREMONY

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

April 1, 2020

COACHES’ CORNER: RENAISSANCE HELPS THE MIDDLE MATTER

By: Rhett Ladner Research shows that middle school years matter more than any other time of a child’s life. How many times have we heard that…

April 1, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: APRIL – KIRSTEN EVANS

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Kirsten Evans from Ottawa High School in Ottawa, KS. Her nominator Jennifer Kane writes, “Kirsten is a…

March 31, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: APRIL – AMY ADAMS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Amy Adams from Berkeley Middle School in Moncks Corner, SC. Nominator Larsen Tedder describes how she brings…

March 30, 2020

BUILDING CONNECTIONS DURING SOCIAL DISTANCING

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation on…

March 26, 2020

FOOD DISTRIBUTION STRATEGIES

Part of the Virtual Culture and Climate Series – Spring 2020 Ideas contributed by the Jostens Renaissance educator community and shared in a Facebook Live presentation…

March 3, 2020

RENAISSANCE PERSPECTIVES: YOU CAN’T POUR FROM AN EMPTY CUP

By: Tom Cody Take care of yourself so that you can take care of others. Educators have one of the most demanding, frustrating, profoundly important jobs…

March 3, 2020

COACHES’ CORNER: SEL AND RENAISSANCE

By: Dr. Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder Use Renaissance to Meet Social and Emotional Learning Goals As we move into 2020, it is essential to reflect on who our…

March 3, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MARCH – JENNY LIPSCOMB

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Jenny Lipscomb from Greenbrier High School in Greenbrier, TN. Nominator Samantha Grimes (a Renaissance Hall of Fame…

March 3, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MARCH – JESUS DOMINGUEZ

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Jesus Dominguez from West Grand High School in Kremmling, Colorado. His nominator Cori Kassib writes, “Jesus Dominguez…

January 27, 2020

COACHES’ CORNER: CULTURE AS A RECRUITMENT ADVANTAGE

By: Dr. Darrin Peppard Ok, we’ve turned the pages of the calendar into a new year. School and district leaders everywhere are starting to think about…

January 27, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – MSG (Ret) MARLON GREEN

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is MSG (Ret.) Marlon Green from Lakewood High School in Salemburg, NC. Nominator Jennifer Naylor describes how his…

January 27, 2020

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – ANTONIO MARTIN

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Antonio Martin from Heritage High School in Newport News, Virginia. His nominator Erionne Baltrip writes, “Antonio does a…

December 2, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – ASHANTY CAMACHO

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Ashanty Camacho from Los Altos High School in Hacienda Heights, CA. Her nominator Chris Reeder writes (lightly…

December 2, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – GINGER STOVALL

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Ginger Stovall from Henderson County High School in Henderson, KY. Nominator Shawna Evans describes how Ginger tirelessly…

December 2, 2019

COACHES’ CORNER: HOLIDAY INCLUSIVENESS TIPS

By: Renaissance Education Team Most of us get together with family and/or friends over the holiday break in line with our traditions. But for some, the…

November 1, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – ELIZABETH FOLKINS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Elizabeth Folkins from Kennebecasis Valley High School in Quispamsis, New Brunswick, in Canada. Nominator Melissa Wright describes…

November 1, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – ALEXIS WARD

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Alexis Ward from Saginaw High School in Saginaw, TX. Her nominator Chelsea Shields writes (lightly edited): “When…

April 29, 2019

COACHES’ CORNER: BEING THE AUTHOR OF YOUR STORY

by Dr. Darrin Peppard In today’s public schools we are “evaluated and graded” on test scores, perception, and the words of outside people. Is it fair?…

April 29, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MAY – LAUREN KLEIN

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Lauren Klein from LaSalle-Peru High School in LaSalle, Illinois. Her nominator Andrea Henry writes (lightly edited): “As…

April 29, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MAY – TERRI VANDERWIJST

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Terri Vanderwijst from Mountain Ridge Middle School in Gerrardstown, West Virginia. Nominator Ronald Branch II describes how…

April 29, 2019

A Night To Remember

“A Night to Remember” tells the story of a very special prom night for students of Portland High School in Portland, Tennessee. The school’s Renaissance students…

March 28, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: APRIL – CHELSEA SHIELDS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Chelsea Shields from Saginaw High School in Saginaw, Texas. Nominator Courtney Parker describes how treating everyone with kindness…

March 28, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: APRIL – KAIDEN CASSANO

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Kaiden Cassano from Chisholm Trail High School in Fort Worth, Texas. Her nominator Carla Hardy writes (lightly…

March 21, 2019

COACHES’ CORNER: GOING ALL IN FOR OUR SPECIAL NEEDS POPULATIONS

by Dr. Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder As we head into April which is officially designated Autism Awareness month, it is important to remember how we include all students…

March 6, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MARCH – STEPHANIE GRIPP

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Stephanie Gripp from Bureau Valley High School in Manlius, IL. Her nominator writes (lightly edited): “Stephanie found…

March 6, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: MARCH – SHERRY FITZGERALD

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Sherry FitzGerald from Jefferson High School in Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia. Nominator Katerina Rushizky describes the importance of…

March 6, 2019

COACHES’ CORNER: Q&A – HOW ARE YOU RESPONDING TO VAPING?

Thanks to Dr. Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder, Sara Cowey, Rhett Ladner, Dr. Darrin Peppard, and Dr. Steve Woolf for sharing their ideas. Their comments were lightly edited and…

January 29, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – JAY WATTERWORTH

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Jay Watterworth from Philip Simmons High School in Charleston, South Carolina. Nominator Dr. Connie McClanahan gives Jay…

January 29, 2019

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – TAYON SMITH

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Tayon Smith from Goose Creek High School in South Carolina. Nominator Amanda Cooper writes: “Tayon is a…

January 29, 2019

COACHES’ CORNER: LEADERSHIP – A LABOR OF LOVE

Leadership – A Labor of Love by Sara Cowey, M.S. Many years ago, at my first Jostens Renaissance National conference, I watched and listened to several…

January 11, 2019

Q&A with Renaissance Coaches: How Do You Connect with Parents?

Thanks to Dr. Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder, Sara Cowey, Rhett Ladner, Dr. Darrin Peppard, and Dr. Steve Woolf for sharing their ideas for this article. What ongoing groups…

December 31, 2018

COACHES’ CORNER: GROW, BABY, GROW!

Elementary Renaissance is Key to a Successful District Program: A Way to Create Leaders at a Young Age By Rhett Ladner As we endure this dark,…

December 31, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: JANUARY – ALLISON RANEY

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Allison Raney from The Independent School in Wichita, Kansas. Nominator Deborah Johnson raves about the impact Allison…

December 31, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: JANUARY – RJ MOILAN

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is RJ Moilan from Prairie Vista Middle School in Texas. The above photo was taken with a truck…

December 4, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – KATERINA RUSHIZKY

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Katerina Rushizky from Jefferson High School in West Virginia. The above photo was taken at summer camp,…

December 4, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – AMBER CARLS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Amber Carls from Flanagan-Cornell High School in Flanagan, Illinois. Amber is off to a great start with…

November 20, 2018

COACHES’ CORNER: ELEMENTARY RENAISSANCE

Elementary Renaissance is Key to a Successful District Program: A Way to Create Leaders at a Young Age By Dr. Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder When schools begin to…

October 30, 2018

CLIMATE AND CULTURE BROCHURE

We all believe a positive climate and culture will help students, but how does it impact larger goals such as boosting school pride, improving attendance and…

October 30, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – DR. FARAH MEADOWS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Dr. Farah Meadows from Indio High School in Indio, California. Farah has been involved with Jostens Renaissance…

October 25, 2018

HONORARY DIPLOMA

The Honorary Diploma featured in the “Gratitude” episode of The Harbor is available for downloading. Click here to download the PDF.

October 23, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – SYDNEY FERRER

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is sophomore Sydney Ferrer from Green River High School in Wyoming. Nominator Bradlee Skinner writes: “Sydney wanted to…

October 23, 2018

COACHES’ CORNER: LIVING OUT LOUD

By Dr. Steve Woolf The first time I heard Kevin Honeycutt, my dear friend and former JRNC keynoter, say “Live your life out loud!” I didn’t…

October 2, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER – DEBRA SUMMERS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Debra Summers from Cane Bay High School in South Carolina. Debra has been a Renaissance coordinator for…

October 2, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER – CARISSA KNITOWSKI

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is senior Carissa Knitowski from William B. Travis High School in Texas. Carissa has been involved with Renaissance…

September 19, 2018

COACHES’ CORNER: KEEP THOSE FIRES BURNING

4 STEPS TO RENAISSANCE ENERGY YEAR ROUND! By Dr. Darrin Peppard Kickoff rallies, New Year’s celebrations, and Welcome Back sidewalk chalk! These are just a few…

May 2, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MAY – NATALIE SILVA

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is senior Natalie Silva from Vista Murrieta High School in California. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

May 2, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: MAY – DEVIN PULLEN

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Devin Pullen from Burlington City High School in New Jersey. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve…

April 26, 2018

Recognition Discs (On the Spot Awards)

Provide personal and public recognition of character qualities you want to encourage in students.

April 26, 2018

Honorary Diploma

Allow graduating seniors to give an honorary diploma to any teacher or staff member
throughout their school experience who has made an impact and helped them graduate.

April 2, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: APRIL– ASHLEY LANGENDERFER

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Ashley Langenderfer from New Albany High School in Ohio. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

April 2, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: APRIL– JANE HOLLIS POOVEY

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is junior Jane Hollis Poovey from Decatur High School in Alabama. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

March 26, 2018

$235K in Scholarships Given on Tour

The following story was written by Michaell Gaspar, a sophomore at Cristo Rey High School in Minneapolis, who is in his second year as a Jostens…

March 6, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: MARCH – ISABELLE WRIGHT

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is sophomore Isabelle Wright from Bureau Valley High School in Illinois. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

March 6, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: MARCH – DEVON PEARRELL

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Devon Pearrell from Jefferson High School in West Virginia. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

February 5, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – GINGER REIJNERS

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Ginger Reigners from Phillip Simmons High School in South Carolina. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve…

February 5, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: FEBRUARY – AARON ALMANZA

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is 5th grader Aaron Almanza from Academy of Technology & Leadership At Saticoy (ATLAS Elementary School) in California.…

January 24, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: JANUARY – MARIAH HELM

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Mariah Helm from Monrovia High School in California. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar spoke to…

January 24, 2018

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: JANUARY – AMY CHOSEWOOD

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Amy Chosewood from North Hall High School in Georgia. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

December 6, 2017

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – DINAH GREENE

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Dinah Greene from Orange Vista High School in California. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

December 6, 2017

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER – BRAIDEN JENKINS

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Braiden Jenkins from Carlisle High School in Arkansas. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar spoke to…

November 1, 2017

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER– JENNIFER BERNARDINI

This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Jennifer Bernardini from Belhaven Middle School in New Jersey. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar…

November 1, 2017

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER – ALEX PECK

This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Alex Peck from Bureau Valley High School in Illinois. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar spoke…

October 2, 2017

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STAFFULTY MEMBER OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER – BETH MORGAN

Our first National Renaissance Staffulty Member of the Month is Beth Morgan from Lassiter High School in Georgia. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar spoke…

October 2, 2017

NATIONAL RENAISSANCE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER – MATTHEW KLEIN

Our first National Renaissance Student of the Month is Matthew Klein from LaSalle-Peru Township High School in Illinois. Renaissance Hall of Fame member Steve Bollar spoke…

May 18, 2017

BROADENING STUDENTS’ WORLDS

We live in a culture where the stereotype is of “breaking ties” as a key part of growing up and exploring the world. Young people are…

May 18, 2017

GREAT IDEA: TEACHERS’ INSPIRATION

The following was submitted by Tricia Phelps, Renaissance Adviser at Licking Valley High School in Newark, OH Over the past few months at Licking Valley High…

April 17, 2017

2019 JRNC Storyteller Contests

April 4, 2017

FUNDRAISING IDEA: MASTERS TOURNAMENT

Bureau Valley High School in Illiniois had a great fundraiser for Renaissance in their school – a Machine Shed Masters Tournament! The Machine Shed Masters is…

April 4, 2017

HELPING STUDENTS STAND UP FOR EACH OTHER

When we look back on our years in middle school and high school, most of us remember individuals who helped us solve problems, get things done…

February 27, 2017

Recognizing Staffulty

Principal Cris Turner at Bonney Lake High School is well aware of the importance of attendance when it comes to student success, stating that, “We also…

February 27, 2017

GUIDING STUDENTS TO ACHIEVE GOALS

  How do you give feedback that challenges students to do and be their best while also boosting, not undermining, their self-confidence and motivation? Experienced teachers…

February 10, 2017

HOW PEERS CAN PUSH EACH OTHER FOR IMPROVEMENT

Many educators worry about student motivation, which typically declines as students grow up through middle school and high school. At the same time, they see the…

February 9, 2017

#WhyYouMatter: School-wide Art Project

The following was written by Principal Michael J. Kapolka of Chelsea High School in Michigan and was originally posted to MASSP’s blog found at www.mymassp.com. Chelsea…

December 19, 2016

Resilience

Help students overcome the challenges and struggles they face.

November 22, 2016

Student Collaboration and Negotiation

“Young people have not been well prepared for adult life today unless they are comfortable and well practiced in addressing collaboratively the kinds of problems and…

October 28, 2016

GIVING STUDENTS A VOICE IN THE CLASSROOM

In a typical school day, how many meaningful decisions about their role and learning do students get to make? Too often, the answer is “not many.”…

October 28, 2016

HELPING STUDENTS LISTEN TO EACH OTHER

“One friend, one person who is truly understanding, who takes the trouble to listen to us as we consider our problems, can change our whole outlook…

September 29, 2016

THE 5 R’S OF RENAISSANCE

The following story was submitted by Taylor White and Maddy Glover from Centerville High School in Centerville, OH. “The Mike Smith event taught me that everyone is…

September 28, 2016

GROUNDBREAKING NEW SURVEY TOOL

The world of education just added a new tool to its belt, and it’s a game-changer for building positive climate and culture in schools. On Sept.…

September 6, 2016

Relationships: The Heart of a Positive School Culture

Strong relationships are the foundation of a vibrant school culture. When students are known, noticed, appreciated, and challenged to be their best by teachers, staff, and…

July 11, 2016

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2016 JRNC

May 9, 2016

GETTING REAL ABOUT GOALS

 The following is an adaptation of research done by the Search Institute and an excerpt from the May Renaissance Kit: Getting Real About Goals This year, Jostens is…

May 9, 2016

A STUDENT’S RENAISSANCE GOALS

  The following story was submitted by 2016 Jostens Renaissance Student Scholarship Recipient Kelty Pierce. Kelty is a senior at Puyallup High School in Puyallup, WA.…

May 9, 2016

THE HARBOR INSPIRES STUDENTS

The following was submitted by Amy Quayle, Leadership Teacher/Adviser from Clarkston High School, and Lauren Culver, Executive Producer for Independent Television, in Michigan. My Leadership classes and…

April 11, 2016

THINK FAST OR SLOW DOWN?

In the past, research on decision-making viewed it as essentially a rational or logical process. If people had accurate information and weighed their options, they would make good…

March 4, 2016

CREATING GROWTH MINDSETS

A high school junior once told me about a transformative conversation she had with a teacher. Here’s an edited excerpt from our exchange: STUDENT: “I think I…

February 8, 2016

TURNING PROBLEMS INTO POSSIBILITIES

Students (and the rest of us) will encounter challenges and problems throughout our lives. Some of those will be challenges that we overcome in order to learn, grow…

February 8, 2016

Creating Academic Stars: Sign on the Line

On February 3, 2016, world class high school football players officially signed with the four year university that has successfully recruited them to come to play…

January 7, 2016

5 ESSENTIAL ACTIONS OF MENTORS

Sometimes we think of mentors narrowly as those who sign up through a formal program to spend time with a young person. In addition to these…

November 30, 2015

VIDEO: POSITIVE PRINCIPAL REFERRAL

Positive Principal Referral is a great way to surprise your students and recognize them for displaying positive behaviors. Below is an excerpt of a video submitted…

November 30, 2015

STUDENTS CREATE HARBOR-INSPIRED VIDEOS

This past fall Mike Smith, host of The Harbor™ by Jostens, traveled 12,000 miles and spoke to over 25,000 students with The Harbor Back to School Tour.…

November 30, 2015

November #jrchat Recap: The Look of Renaissance

A recap of the August #jrchat. Educators from across the country shared ideas on how to start the school year strong with Renaissance. Check it out to find inspiration from amazing teachers, principals, and those that are dedicated to making schools great.

November 25, 2015

CATCH THEM DOING SOMETHING RIGHT

This year, Jostens is partnering with Search Institute, an organization dedicated to researching and understanding what kids need in order to succeed. Over the past 25…

November 2, 2015

HARD FACTS ON SOFT SKILLS

This year, Jostens is partnering with Search Institute, an organization dedicated to researching and understanding what kids need in order to succeed. Over the past 25…

November 2, 2015

PROMOTING CHARACTER TO IMPROVE CLIMATE

Click here to register for an upcoming training. Jostens is honored to support the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and Foundation, and their mission, by helping…

November 2, 2015

WHY JOSTENS RENAISSANCE?

For the 2015 Jostens Renaissance National Conference, we held a “Why Jostens Renaissance?” video contest and asked schools to make a 3 minute or less video…

October 6, 2015

INSIGHTS FROM NASSP NATIONAL PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

This week the National Association of Secondary School Principals selected their 2016 National Principal of the Year. Of the 50 Principals of the Year from each…

October 6, 2015

TYUS JONES VISITS THE HARBOR BACK TO SCHOOL TOUR

On September 16th, Minnesota Timberwolves’ rookie point-guard Tyus Jones made a special guest appearance at a Harbor tour stop in Apple Valley, MN. Tyus, MVP of…

September 30, 2015

FLASH JUDGEMENT

This activity will force students to make flash judgements…

September 15, 2015

4 Myths of Bullying

This year, Jostens is partnering with Search Institute, an organization dedicated to researching and understanding what kids need in order to succeed. Over the past 25…

September 3, 2015

2019 JRNC Storyteller Contests

Participate in these fun ways to be recognized at this year’s Jostens Renaissance National Conference: The “Before and After the Change” Photo Contest and the “Make…

August 31, 2015

August #jrchat recap: Back to School: Renaissance-style

A recap of the August #jrchat. Educators from across the country shared ideas on how to start the school year strong with Renaissance. Check it out to find inspiration from amazing teachers, principals, and those that are dedicated to making schools great.

August 25, 2015

Back To School: Renaissance-Style

It’s back to school time! That means that Renaissance schools across the country are using creative ways to set the tone for the school year with…

July 21, 2015

#jrchat Recap: The JRNC is Over, Now What?

A recap from the first Jostens Renaissance #jrchat that happened in July.

July 18, 2015

Congratulations to the NASSP State Principal of the Year Winners

On behalf of Renaissance Education and the entire Jostens organization, we are honored to congratulate each of the 49 National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP)…

May 13, 2015

RALLY SCRIPT: EDUCATION STRIKES BACK

This script can be used as a loose guide or as-is to create a terrific Renaissance Rally!

May 13, 2015

SIGN ON THE LINE

The SIGN ON THE LINE ceremony is an academic play off of when high school athletes sign letters of intent to the university they plan on attending and playing for. The Principal reads the pronouncement of the student’s choice and then they sign a “Letter of Intent” with the college representative. The student and their family are photographed and then placed in a “Student Hall of Fame.“

May 13, 2015

PLANNING A RALLY

Renaissance Rallies are a great way to celebrate all of the positive…

May 12, 2015

WELCOME TO THE NEW JOSTENS RENAISSANCE EDUCATION

Did you know Jostens Renaissance® Education has been around for 27 years? Dr. Larry Biddle was an assistant principal at Conway High School in Conway, South Carolina when he wanted to find a way to motivate his freshman class to be amazing and to earn more scholarship dollars than any class before them. This led Dr. Biddle to create a program that was designed around the idea that “the actions we respect, we will recognize; we will reward that which we value and reinforce its existence by continuing to repeat the process of recognition for optimal results.”

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