INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Renata Basile, Independence Elementary School

Renata Basile is the school registrar at Independence Elementary School.

Basile is responsible for enrolling, withdrawing and transferring students — as well as keeping all the records up to date and in order, helping teachers and staff with any student information, and translating meetings when necessary. She also is responsible for the school’s social media and marquee. 

“She is often the first person new families communicate with here at the school,” Principal Jeff Peters said. “She welcomes them to the school and provides information and guidance on what we offer here at Independence Elementary. She also provides prospective parents with a tour of our school where she highlights the wonderful things that happen here. Renata is also bilingual and speaks Portuguese. Her warm and welcoming attitude builds trust with our families. New families feel more comfortable, and existing families know they can rely on her if they need anything at all. Not only does Renata perform the role of registrar, but she oversees our social media presence via Facebook and our digital marquee. In so many ways, Ms. Basile, is our link to our families and community.”

What brought you to your school? 

It was actually Mr. Peters, our principal. He was my AP when I worked at Keene’s (Crossing Elementary School), and when he became the principal at Independence, he asked me to join his team. Since I had enjoyed working with him at Keene’s, I said, why not?

What do you love most about your school? 

I love our teachers and staff, and the love they put into their work. And I love our families and how involved they are with the school.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

It’s welcoming a new family for the first time, answering all their questions and making them feel confident about sending their child to our school — especially when it’s a family coming from another country. I like to explain how the school system works in Florida, how ESOL works, what to expect in the first days, etc. I am always available to help with any issues or questions they might have. And it’s always rewarding when I run into one of these families and they say I was a blessing in their lives.  

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? 

Before I moved to the United States, I worked in advertising/PR. When we moved, since we had no family around, I needed a job where I could work while my kids were in school, and that’s when I started working for OCPS. I enjoyed this change of scenery and being around the kids and seeing them grow. If I were to start over, I would be a vet.

Who influences you? 

My parents and my grandpa. They always taught me that honesty and hard work go a long way.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? 

Mr. Diogo. He was my geography teacher in seventh grade. He instilled in me a love of traveling and learning about different countries, cultures, etc. Geography is still my favorite subject.

What is your favorite children’s book and why? 

“The Rainbow Fish.” It has such a powerful message.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spend time with my family and friends, go to the beach, read a good novel and watch a series.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why? 

Betty White. I want a fun dinner, filled with laughter and fascinating stories.  

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? 

Not sure if that’s a superpower, but I would love to visit our loved ones who are no longer here. Just spend a day with them, talk, laugh, have fun and come back knowing they are still here.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why? 

That’s hard. I am a very eclectic person. I’d say Garth Brooks, U2 (or Coldplay) and Marisa Monte (a Brazilian singer).

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student? 

Tuna sandwich, Toddynho and pao de queijo (cheese bread).

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Christmas. I love all the magic behind it, all the traditions. And the best part is to join Brazilian and American traditions.

What is a fun fact about yourself that would surprise people?

I did bungee-jumping once.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you earn any accolades? 

I was a theater kid. I loved it. I did several plays. I did get nominated for best actress in a festival.