This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Jinnea Zenzen from Grand Rapids High School in Grand Rapids, MN. Her nominator Christine Grover wrote:
Jinnea is brand new to Renaissance and is our new Student Council advisor this year. She is a social studies teacher, a mother of two young children and manages to work tirelessly for all our students here at Grand Rapids High School. Since Jinnea came back from the global conference she has hit the ground running and hasn’t stopped yet. In August she pulled in students who were interested in joining student council and had over 30 students respond. At her first student council meeting her classroom was standing room only, with students and staff who where ready to go “All In” and help make our school a better place for everyone. Each month her team has come up with fun things for each of the Monthly Challenges. She has been doing many other events and celebrations so far this year that have made a huge difference. Her heart and dedication to GRHS is obvious in all she does. This school is her own and as a past graduate she is giving back daily to everyone here. If there ever was an energizer bunny she is it – I personally don’t know how she does it all and still manages to take care of her family and herself – but she does and always has the biggest smile and a heart of gratitude.
How long have you been involved with Renaissance?
This is my first year!
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
My favorite Renaissance moment was when my school hosted PC for a regional Jostens Leadership Conference. We had over 500 students attend and the energy in the room was palpable! I left the conference knowing positive change was going to continue to happen at my school and students were going to be the change makers.
How has Renaissance impacted your school’s culture?
I think the way in which we approach school climate has changed for the better. Our students understand and see the importance of making ALL students and Staffulty feel seen and recognized. Jostens monthly challenges have been well received and very much appreciated. It’s clear the desire and motivation to continue to do positive things in our school is evident.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
I have absolutely loved how Renaissance has allowed me to be a part of our school’s culture and climate in a more direct way. Being able to work with student leaders who want to put in the time and work to see change within their school has been so inspiring to me. Since starting Renaissance at our school I have felt rejuvenated as an educator and believe others have felt the impact as well.
What advice would you give to someone just starting with Renaissance?
Get excited for what’s to come! Renaissance has opened up my eyes to all the opportunities to make students and staffulty feel seen, heard, and valued. If you’re worried about where to start or feeling overwhelmed, I would say start small and have plans to grow. The littlest of things can make a huge impact.
Jinnea will receive a tote bag and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievement.