Ice cream.  Discounts at local businesses.  Money for teachers.

These are just a few of the benefits provided to students at Tyrone High School by the Tyrone Renaissance Education Foundation (TREF).

The Renaissance Foundation consists of volunteer parents, faculty, students, and business leaders from the Tyrone community. They work with the support of the school board and school district administration to encourage and support students and teachers through activities, awards and monetary support.

One of Renaissance’s best know activities is the incentive card program. Incentive cards are awarded to students after each marking period and provide privileges in school, discounts in retail stores in Tyrone, and coupons for free products or services.

Renaissance also honors individual students every nine weeks.  Two students from each grade are recognized and rewarded for outstanding attendance at the end of each marking period.  Renaissance also names Renaissance Stars each marking period in each grade.  Two students who have excelled in some area, such as a quality research projectort, an outstanding grade on a test, extra effort, or a notable improvement in class are recognized as Renaissance Stars from each grade level.

This program began nationally in 1988, but didn’t come to Tyrone until the 1992-93 school year. “I like the idea that it’s all volunteers and it’s a nonprofit organization,” said Mrs. Isenberg, the new Renaissance club adviser.

“I think if students understood what it is, we’d get more participation,” said Isenburg. “I want them to get involved and spread the word that Renaissance Club is looking for you!” Students can sign up by Mrs. Isenberg’s room or see Renaissance club members Carly Crofcheck or Alyssa Benton for more information.