Sharing the spotlight: the principles of being the principal’s daughter

October 4, 2016

BY KAYLA DEWEY

Dr. Renner is a celebrity at Mariemont. Very rarely will you find anyone who has never heard of or seen the principal’s goofy smile and charming presence. This constant spotlight, however, can sometimes shift and land on people who may not find the attention as inviting: his kids.

“I’m kind of quiet and shy and hate being the center of attention,” says Stephanie, junior daughter of Dr. Renner. “I dread the days we have soccer games because we always have to wear our warmups to school that say our last name on the back.”

Stephanie is constantly watched by Dr. Renner. Whether it is in school, at home, or on the soccer field, he is never too far away (PHOTO BY WITTRY)

Renner has also endured two years of teasing from teachers and faculty members because of her dad’s position at the school. By now, she’s an expert at dealing with these comments. “I used to get really red and embarrassed,” says Stephanie, “but now I just laugh it off because I’ve realized how little it bothers me.”

Although Renner may not like being the center of attention, she does admit there are some upsides to being related to the principal. “I get to talk to him during the day.” Says Renner. “This is something a lot of kids don’t get to do with their parents.” Stephanie’s friends benefit from her relationship with her dad as well. “Dr. Renner always lets Stephanie and I go to his office during lunch and grab candy from his candy jar on the table.” Says Sydney Seeger, a friend of Stephanie. Emery Shelley also says Dr. Renner has brought her lunch table cupcakes.

Family is a major proponent that inspires Dr. Renner to work hard. His office is littered with pictures of his family (PHOTO BY DEWEY) — Dr. Renner’s family inspires him daily to work hard. His office is littered with family photos (PHOTO BY DEWEY)

However, all her friends reference traits that are not concerned with her relation to her dad. “She always lets me borrow her calculator and she wears nice hats.” Sarah Feeney says of Stephanie. “It would take too long to list all the awesome things about Stephanie.”

Dr. Renner admits that it is tough to have your dad as the principal. “But Mariemont is ranked in the top 100 high schools in the country. I want my kids to be able to experience an education that they can’t get at any other school,” he says.

Although Stephanie may not be a huge fan of the attention she gains from being related to the principal, she has never regretted her decision to come to Mariemont.

“Everyone else in my family has gone here and my dad really wanted me to go here,” says Renner. “If I had to make the decision all over again, I would definitely stay at Mariemont.”

“Four Renners have graduated from the High School and survived four years with my dad as the principal. Currently, they are still alive and succeeding. I’m more than halfway there, and I hope I can make it, too.”