Influencer of the Week: Daniela Patino, Renaissance Charter School at Crown Point

Daniela Patino exemplifies the passion, the professionalism and the love for students that Renaissance Charter School at Crown Point is so proud to boast. She makes the curriculum come to life for the children, creating interactive games and activities to pique her students’ interest. As a result, they become active and engaged in current events and are eager to share ideas.

What do you love most about your school?

What I love most about working at my school is my seventh grade team! It’s the best feeling to be able to work along such great teachers. There are so many teachers here who show up every day to do what they love and it’s great to see that passion shine through.

What’s your favorite part of your role?

My favorite part about teaching civics is its relevance in our society. I love getting to teach my students ways to become active citizens in their communities. I think it is so important that students get to learn about the vision our founding fathers had for this nation and what needs to be done in order to preserve that. 

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

Honestly, the thing that motivates me and pushes me forward are my students! Some days are rough, but seeing them come into my classroom with smiles on their faces at least shows me that I can really make an impact on their lives daily. To see them actively participating and getting into lessons is the best feeling. I love watching them grow throughout the year. 

What’s the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you?

I think that being chosen for this feature was probably the biggest acknowledgment that I’ve gotten, and I could not be more humbled. I am a sucker for the little things and really just love everyday small acts of kindness! Any chance we get to celebrate the hard work we put in as teachers is so refreshing. 

If you could take a vacation anywhere, where would you go?

Oh gosh, I have a whole bucket list of places that I would love to visit. I think it would probably be a tie between Bali and Dubai! But really, how can one choose?! I love being outdoors and I love the beach, but it would also be so neat to witness the United Arab Emirates and all its wonder. I took my first international trip two years ago when I went to Antalya and Istanbul, Turkey. This past winter break, I went to London! 

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I’m pretty low-key. I love to hang out with my husband and my two cats. I do love to be outside and I really find peace at the beach. I am trying to take more time to travel and see new parts of the world. 

If you could meet anyone, from present day or throughout history, who would it be?

I think if I could go back and meet anyone from the past, I would love to meet Maya Angelou. I love poetry and I think her work is so inspirational and made such an impact on society.