Renato has been teaching for more than 20 years now and no one doubts how much he loves his students. His classroom is filled with unique tributes to his success as a teacher. Not plaques or trophies, but, for example, a fireplace built by a student's family and an incredibly ornate mailbox that another family made him. Both add a feeling of welcome and warmth to his room. For a long time now Renato has taught ESL to community members through a local community college. However, recently a need arose at our school to teach ESL to the parents of his students. It paid a lot less, but would make a huge difference to them. He has taken up that challenge and as a result new partnerships are being built with the Spanish speaking parents of our school that would not have been possible without his contribution. I want to wholeheartedly recommend him for this honor, as he is truly deserving of it.
- Submitted by Katie Joy Newhouse