Linden Principal Julie Dixon welcomed students and staff to the gym and started in on a slide presentation, keeping the ruse intact until Voight’s family could be assembled just outside the door for the surprise.
“She really sold it by starting the assembly with a slide on grant funding, I was entirely thrown off the trail,” Voight said. “When the news crew and my family began to enter, the realization finally hit me.”
Voight poses for a photo with her family after the assembly.
“When I heard that I was a nominee, I knew that I was well-supported by my school community, but I never thought that I would be able to bet so many other outstanding teachers that were also nominated.”
It was no surprise to Principal Dixon that Voight was recognized for her accomplishments; she sees the differences Voight makes in the classroom daily.
Several students and staff members lined up to speak during the assembly about the impact Voight has had on their educational journeys, while others created signs of congratulations, filled with their signatures and pictures. Voight said the surprise filled her bucket “to the brim.”
Linden Sixth Grade Teacher Renae Voight poses with Dean of Middle School Lacie Kirkpatrick.
“I cannot explain how much appreciation, love, and support I feel from the entirety of my school community. The fact that my nomination came from a student's parent really allowed it to set in that I am having a meaningful impact on the community that I serve. The kind words that I received from students and staff touched my heart and warmed my soul. It made me feel as though the job that I do has a lasting impact and that I am fully supported by the peers and community that surrounds me."
“I am eternally grateful for the support of all these wonderful people in my life and am aware of the amazing community that Linden Charter Academy has developed throughout the years. We Lions are a proud pack.”
Dixon said she’s grateful so many parents and staff voiced their support for Voight, as she contributes so much to the learning and growth her sixth graders experience all year long.
“It is such a pleasure to see her recognized for the contributions we have the privilege of experiencing every day. We are beyond thankful that Mrs. Voight chooses LCA! We are lucky to have her.”
Sixth grade teacher Renae Voight receives a hug from a student after she was named as the Mid-Michigan NOW Golden Apple Award winner by WEYI-TV in Flint.
Congratulations, Mrs. Voight and LCA!
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About Linden Charter Academy
Linden Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Flint, Michigan, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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