Empowered Teachers
Empower Students
Professional Development with
Learning Curve Solutions
Sarah Renfrow
Programming, Teacher Engagement, Student Agency
Sarah Renfrow is an English and communications teacher with 20 years of experience designing experiential learning in catch up, on-level, and dual credit courses, implementing innovative learning practices and grading methods in individual classroom and cross-curricular flexible learning spaces. She holds advanced degrees in English and educational technology and is passionate about improving students’ communication skills. She is an avid promoter of student and teacher voice in developing meaningful process-based educational experiences tied to the expertise of educators and interests of students. She lives in Lee’s Summit, Missouri with her husband Jason, daughter Emerson, and a seemingly unstoppable growing collection of pets.
Stefani Russ
Partnerships, Business Development, Storytelling
Stefani Russ is a dedicated journalism and media educator with over 20 years of experience in empowering students to excel in both print and digital publication environments. With a robust background in educational leadership and journalism, Stefani has cultivated a dynamic career focused on fostering high-quality learning experiences and professional growth for her students.
Throughout her career, Stefani has developed and implemented innovative systems designed to recruit and retain esteemed community partners. These partnerships enable students to engage in real-world learning experiences, bridging classroom knowledge with practical application. Her strategic approach has significantly enhanced student engagement and success in journalism and media projects.
Stefani holds advanced degrees in Educational Leadership and Journalism, equipping her with a deep understanding of both educational theory and practical journalistic skills. Her commitment to the educational community extends beyond her classroom as she actively supports fellow educators in navigating and overcoming challenges to create exceptional learning environments for their students.
A passionate advocate for effective educational practices, Stefani is particularly interested in capturing and sharing the stories of students and teachers. Through storytelling, she aims to highlight successful strategies and inspire the broader educational community.
Outside of her professional life, Stefani resides on her family farm in Cleveland, Missouri, with her husband Rob and their three children, Baylee, Blake, and Chase. Her home life reflects her commitment to community and family, which complements her professional endeavors in education and media.
Client-Connected Project Teacher Workshop
"It is imperative to stay open to students' evolving strengths and interests. You may be surprised by some students' leadership abilities."
Kelly Wilson,
Marketing Educator
"Don't be afraid. Jump in feet first. Your students will help guide you! Let go and let students show you what they can do. At the middle school level it was essential to have things a bit more structured. Giving students specific tasks that were to be completed each week and having specific roles for each student was SO helpful!"
Leslie Lame,
Pre-Algebra
"What began as a work experience opportunity for special education students has turned into proof that students will achieve greatness if you give them the chance. Using the design thinking process through client centered projects is possible for ALL students and allows students an alternative way to grow and learn. Watching my students in a school community that focuses on their strengths while giving them a process to grow with peers has been career changing. I would recommend this to any and every special education teacher."
Katie Huff,
Special Education