Sea Isle Elementary School Principal Renee Meeks has always been passionate about education. Since her days as a fourth-grade student, she knew she wanted to make a difference in the lives of children.

Now, as principal, she's doing just that by fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity at Sea Isle.

This commitment to inclusion is evident throughout Sea Isle, which currently has 5% of its student population identifying as deaf or hard of hearing. The school also serves students who are blind or have limited vision and provides specialized services and resources. Principal Meeks points out a unique connection that makes Sea Isle stand out: “Our teaching staff mirrors our student population in many ways. We have faculty and staff who are also hard of hearing, blind, and bilingual.”

One of the most unique experiences Principal Meeks has had as principal was learning sign language from a deaf staff member. "She asked that I use sign language to better communicate with her, as well as with the deaf and hard-of-hearing students and staff at our school," Principal Meeks explained. "If I didn't know a word, she would teach me on the spot."

Principal Meeks believes that this diversity is a strength, and she is committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.

(Picture: Instagram - @seaisleseahawks - Miss Black Tennessee poses with students for National Deaf Youth Day - March 2024)

“I am evidence of how education can positively change the trajectory of one's life, and I felt that as a principal, I could have that type of impact,” said Principal Meeks. This impact has captured the attention of her colleagues and district leaders, who have nominated her for Principal of the Year multiple times. In 2023, she won MSCS Principal of the Year and was named West Grand Division Principal of the Year for the state of Tennessee. Her colleagues say Sea Isle “screams” inclusiveness, from the people to the building; a testament to the culture she builds as a leader.

“It is evident that as individuals, we look different, learn differently, and think differently, but it's our differences that make us uniquely who we are. ‘Inclusion on The Island’ means making sure that everyone not only feels included but is actually included in all aspects of the school community. It means having high expectations for all students, teaching them how to work with others and to persevere through challenges in order to reach their goals and be successful in their current and future endeavors.”