Her Story
About Renee Chantel
Renee Chantel Baptiste, M.A., M.S., is a dedicated education professional and K–12 teacher based in the Denver Metropolitan Area. With over seven years of experience in the field, Renee has developed a strong expertise in classroom instruction, curriculum design, and student social-emotional support. She currently serves at Cherry Creek School District as a 3rd-grade teacher and as the leader of the Equity Community & Culture Affinity Group, where she fosters inclusion, equity, and peer support for teachers of color. Renee’s approach to education is rooted in empathy, integrity, and a commitment to nurturing students’ full potential.
Renee’s journey into education began after a 12-year career in the automotive industry, during which she honed her communication and organizational skills. Inspired by her passion for teaching and her desire to positively impact the next generation, she pursued higher education at the University of Phoenix, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, a Master of Arts in Elementary Education and Teaching, and a Master of Science in Psychology. Her professional development is complemented by certifications from the Colorado Department of Education, including a Professional Teacher License. Renee’s innovative approach to teaching integrates 21st-century skills and creative instructional techniques to engage diverse learning styles and foster growth in every student.
Throughout her career, Renee has been recognized for her excellence in education, earning accolades such as the 2022–2023 CCSD Top 7 Educators of the Year and the Red Hawk Ridge Educator of the Year. Beyond her classroom achievements, she is deeply committed to mentorship, community building, and equity initiatives within her district. Renee combines her professional expertise with her personal values of growth, empathy, kindness, and integrity, guiding both students and colleagues toward meaningful success. Her ultimate goal is to inspire lifelong learning, support inclusive education, and publish educational resources that empower future generations.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Renee Chantel
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to growing up watching my single mother pursue education and create opportunities for her children. Witnessing her drive and channeling that motivation into my own personal and professional growth has been pivotal. I also prioritize self-reflection and deliberately acknowledging my accomplishments to keep evolving.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to maintain work–life balance intentionally through structured routines and rituals rather than leaving it to chance. This approach ensures that I can sustain my effectiveness both professionally and personally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
While serving others, you must always prioritize self-care—mental, emotional, and physical. You cannot pour from an empty bucket, so taking care of yourself is essential for sustaining service to students and your community.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is being a teacher of color, which can involve facing microaggressions, subconscious biases, and inconsistent equity practices among administrators. However, there are also opportunities through affinity groups and district equity initiatives, which provide support, shared resources, and community to navigate these challenges.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values I prioritize are maintaining a growth mindset, practicing empathy and kindness, and upholding integrity and honor in all my interactions and decisions.
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