This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mary Alice Kane from Flanagan-Cornell High School, IL. Nominator Amber Carls writes:
Mary Alice Kane has stepped into the role of our Student Council advisor, which is our Renaissance group. Our school had a lot of changes this school year with staffulty and administration. She took a group of students to JRGC this summer with our previous advisor. She immediately saw how much Jostens can do to change a person’s outlook on school and how we could use some new ideas to build on to the strong program we have already started. She and the council have implemented many of the ideas we brought home from JRGC. In a year with so much change for the student body, it was great to have new excitement and passion in our leadership role. Mary Alice sees beyond what we have and continues to inspire better for the future.
How long have you been involved with Renaissance?
Since July 2022!
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
I love acknowledging the good in each and every student and Staffulty member. I love looking across the gym at our assemblies and seeing everyone standing while being recognized!
How has Renaissance impacted your school’s culture?
We really celebrate each and every member of our school family. Kids and Staffulty lift each other up and enjoy our time together.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
At the end of the 2021-22 school year, I was burned out and counting down the days until I could retire. I was also overwhelmed by all the changes, as we lost nine Staffulty members that year, many who I was close to. At that point, I was just done. Emotionally, I was drained. Then the principal called me into his office and said he needed me to take a group of students to the Jostens Conference in Orlando, Florida. Under much duress, I agreed. I had no idea how life-changing this conference would be for me. I am excited to come to school everyday. Jostens has given me a new outlook, one of appreciation and gratitude, and celebration. Now I think about how I can make the most of each and every day and every interaction I have instead of trying to get to the weekend.
What advice would you give to someone just starting with Renaissance?
Be open to unique opportunities. Small changes over time lead to big results!! 🙂
Mary Alice will receive a tote bag and a lapel pin in recognition of her achievement.