This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Gretchen Hiort from Freeman High School in Virginia. Nominator JaNee Boston wrote:
Gretchen’s journey began with a commitment to professional growth, attending both local and national PBIS conferences last year. While many attend these events, Gretchen returned with a transformative vision. She didn’t just bring back notes; she brought back a flame that she has since fanned into a school-wide culture shift. As the PBIS Chair, Gretchen led the critical initiative of redesigning school expectations. Most notably, she spearheaded a strategic rebranding of the school mascot, ensuring the school’s identity aligned with modern cultural awareness. This move signaled to the community that a “mindset for success” must be rooted in inclusivity and respect.
Leveraging the energy of the Renaissance Framework, Gretchen established a dedicated Leadership Class. This move shifted the school’s dynamic, moving students from passive recipients of PBIS to active architects of their own school culture. By placing student voice at the center, she has ensured that all initiatives are authentic and resonant. In only the first three months of the school year, Gretchen has fundamentally enhanced the sense of belonging for both students and Staffulty through hosting professional learning, launching a recognition program that empowers students to celebrate one another’s successes, maintaining a constant “pulse” of positivity through school-wide presentations that highlight wins, fostering a collective pride across the building. Gretchen is the embodiment of a Renaissance educator. She doesn’t just manage a program; she cultivates an environment where success is expected, celebrated and accessible to everyone
What do you teach? Are you involved with anything else at your school?
Health and Physical Education, PBIS Coach, Head Cross-Country and Track coach
What is something you appreciate about your school’s culture?
The Freeman Family is deeply committed to supporting our learners in becoming the best versions of themselves, both inside and outside the classroom. We believe in nurturing the whole student, fostering not only academic excellence but also the personal growth and integrity needed to thrive in the world beyond our doors.
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
My favorite Renaissance moment was when our Renaissance 9 team presented to administrators and the School Quality team at Henrico County Public Schools. During this presentation, our student leaders shared the diverse ways they lead and advocate for their peers at Freeman. This experience provided a powerful platform for our students to design a showcase of their leadership in action. Following the formal presentation, the audience engaged the team with specific, probing questions. This dialogue allowed our Renaissance leaders to take a “deeper dive” into their work, articulating their long-term goals and vision for the future. This moment will forever be cherished. I am incredibly proud to be part of a team of student leaders who are so passionate, driven, and dedicated to making a tangible difference in their school community.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Being part of Renaissance doesn’t just motivate me, it grounds me. It reminds me that real growth takes time, patience, and care. I’m grateful to be surrounded by a team that truly wants to make a difference, a team that shows up every single day to ensure our students and staff feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Renaissance inspires me to rise to that standard. It pushes me to show up with a fuller heart, to look a little closer, and to give a little more each day for our school community. I’m proud to be part of something that lifts people up and helps them feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
What is something that helps you feel Better Than Good?
I am passionate about staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Outside of my work with student leadership, I find my greatest balance through exercise and the outdoors. I especially cherish the time I spend taking walks with my husband and our dog; it’s a wonderful way to decompress, stay connected, and enjoy the fresh air together.
What is something you do to help others feel Better Than Good?
I strive to ensure that every person I interact with feels truly seen and heard. I believe that meaningful connection is rooted in active listening and giving others my undivided attention. Beyond our initial conversations, I make it a priority to follow up with students and staff to demonstrate that I am genuinely invested in their lives and well-being. For me, building these authentic relationships is essential.
How do you maintain a good mindset?
I maintain a positive and focused mindset by dedicating time to reflection and goal setting. I am deeply passionate about lifelong learning and finding meaningful ways to give back to my community. For me, happiness is tied to progress; I thrive when I am moving forward, evolving as a learner, and helping others.
Gretchen will receive a coffee tumbler and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievements.