POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Today’s A+ Teacher is connecting with students on so many different levels, both inside and outside the classroom.

Renard Ellis teaches Algebra and personal finance at Winter Haven High School.

He’s also the head weightlifting coach and spent seven years as an assistant football coach.

And for many Winter Haven High students, Ellis plays a key role in their journey to success.

“I wouldn’t be here without the positive teachers I’ve had in my life,” Ellis said. “I just try to relate to the kids. You’ve got to get on the same plain as them. I think so many teachers nowadays just want it their way, and so you have to adapt from the fashion, from the verbiage, just whatever you can do to relate to them, and make coming to school fun."

“Making education fun, just makes them have more success.”

 Ellis’ can relate to students more than most teachers – Ellis also attended classes here and graduated from Winter Haven High.

“Coming back home really does mean a lot, he said. “And being able to see young people that are going to be our future leaders, and to just help them, watch them grow, develop a relationship.

“Life is about relationships to me, you’re going to have some good ones, bad ones, but helping these kids understand and realize there’s more to life and just preparing them is really what it’s all about.”

His own success story after leaving high school serves as an example for his students. He’s conquered athletics and academics, transitioning from a college football players to coaching football and weightlifting, both at the college level and at Winter Haven.

Ellis also earned his MBA and Master’s in Educational Leadership.

So every day, he’s challenging his students to be their best and motivating them to unlock their drive.

 “My three pillars are discipline, dedication, determination,” Ellis said.

“And to me, in order to be successful, you have to have those, and so it’s all about growth.  Sports teaches you a ton about life. Preparing you for life.”