The Renaissance Charter School celebrates this recognition of excellence in teaching, leadership, and dedication to student learning.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JACKSON HEIGHTS, N.Y. — October 2026 — The Renaissance Charter School is proud to share that Ariel Sacks has been named a 2026 winner of the Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching, an honor recognizing outstanding educators across New York City.
Ariel is a middle school English Language Arts teacher at The Renaissance Charter School in Jackson Heights, where she also serves as a Literacy Coach and Middle School Teaching and Learning Co-Coordinator.
The Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching celebrates New York City educators for their work in the classroom and their commitment to their school communities. The award recognizes excellence in teaching, leadership, innovation, continuous learning, and the creation of meaningful learning experiences for students.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Ariel and this exciting achievement,” said Daniel Fanelli, Principal of The Renaissance Charter School. “Her dedication to her students, her colleagues, and the Renaissance community reflects the thoughtful, student-centered teaching we value at Renaissance.”
Throughout her career, Ariel has shared her experience and approach to education beyond the classroom. She is the author of Whole Novels for the Whole Class: A Student-Centered Approach and Who Gets to Write Fiction? Opening Doors to Imaginative Writing for All Students. Her work has also appeared in Education Week, Educational Leadership, and MiddleWeb.
Ariel earned her master’s degree in teaching from Bank Street College and recently completed a master’s degree in education leadership at Teachers College. While at Teachers College, she was part of the team that won the 2025 New School Design Competition.
Please join us in congratulating Ariel on this well-deserved recognition!
About The Renaissance Charter School
The Renaissance Charter School is a public charter school located in Jackson Heights, Queens, serving students in pre-K through 12th grade. Our school is committed to creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally as they grow.
Media Contact:
Anahi Rafael
The Renaissance Charter Schools
Jackson Heights | Elmhurst
anahirafael@rencharter2.org