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 (lightly edited):
“Grace is absolutely amazing! She deserves to be a national student of the month for her dedication, hard work and leadership. Grace is always the first to show up to any event and the last to leave. She never misses a meeting (even our virtual ones now) and is always asking how she can help. Even during this pandemic she is going above and beyond. She spearheaded the idea to take the things we usually do on campus (Kiss a Grad Goodbye and Crusader Champion) and to do them virtually. She jumped at the opportunity to be the emcee for our video of our Crusader Champion recognition and always interacts with posts on our social media. We had planned this spring to provide positive messages for each student on their locker, but when the pandemic started, we decided to move it virtual, having team members write out a positive quote to put on lockers. Grace was the first to submit her quote to be posted on our social media and to get her hand-written notes done. She also submitted a fabulous write-up about the Harbor videos for our Renaissance School of Distinction application, all while trying to complete 5 courses online, one of which is an AP course! We look forward to the amazing things she will continue to do through this pandemic and next school year!”
How long have you been involved with Renaissance?
3 years
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
My favourite Renaissance moment was at the New Brunswick Renaissance Provincial Conference in 2019. Standing in front of an auditorium full of students, I realized how much Renaissance in NB had improved over the last few years. Two years before it had only been a couple dozen people. Everyone was chanting, singing, and celebrating together. We had truly make a positive impact within our province. Not only for those students in attendance, but also their schools and communities.
How has Renaissance impacted your school’s culture?
Renaissance has improved so much at our school! For me, the biggest impact we have had was acknowledging every student’s achievements. We equally value academics, extra curriculars, sports, and more. It makes all students at our school feel involved and cared about.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Personally, Renaissance has made me realize how much small actions can have huge impacts on people. I have become a more empathetic and hardworking person. I am truly passionate about everything we do and I have become way more involved in school events and school culture.
What advice would you give to someone just starting with Renaissance?
Stick with it! Renaissance is such a rewarding and fulfilling organization. You will develop a passion for helping others and you will have a huge impact on your school. You can make a difference.
Grace will receive a shirt and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievement.
To nominate someone in your school for the National Renaissance Student of the Month honor, click here.