by Dennis Dalman
by Dennis Dalman
news@thenewsleaders.com
Jean Voigt, a Kennedy Community School teacher, was recently named as a semi-finalist for the annual “Minnesota Teacher of the Year” award.
Voigt, who teaches second-graders at the St. Joseph school, told the Newsleaders she was humbled to be nominated for the award.
“I was a bit shy about it because there are so many, many other teachers who go above and beyond what they’re asked to do, but being nominated for that award I do consider a big honor.”
Voigt is now in her eighth year of teaching at Kennedy. Previously, she had taught third grade and a combination class of fourth- and fifth-graders. In her current second-grade class, there are 22 students.
Voigt was born in St. Cloud, and moved with her family to Cold Spring when she was in the ninth grade. After graduating from Rocori High School, she graduated with a teaching degree from St. Cloud State University. She then earned a master’s degree in Culturally Responsive Practices after taking an online course from the College of St. Scholastica. She wrote her master’s thesis on the topic of “Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics” and how a blend of those subjects can be used together for cross-cultural lessons in a way that unlocks children’s skills sets and creativity.
“I like to make a difference in children’s lives,” Voigt said. “I help them understand they are all absolutely amazing, and will understand that and carry that knowledge all through their lives.”
In the current politically-charged, divisive atmosphere in the nation, Voigt is aware some teachers are coming under attack by some factions.
“We have to keep a thick skin and remember why we’re teachers – that we do it for the children,” she said. “It’s a very rewarding job.”
This year, there were 159 teachers who were nominated as “Teacher of the Year.” Recently, an independent panel of 18 people narrowed that number down to 27, one of which is Voigt. Soon, that panel will narrow down that group to 10 finalists. The winner will be announced at the 60th Minnesota Teacher of the Year banquet May 5 at the St. Paul River Center. The current Teacher of the Year, Michael Houston, a St. Paul math teacher, will announce the winner.
Voigt lives in St. Cloud with her husband, Barry Voigt, three children and two stepchildren. She also lives very close to her parents, Tom and Elli Nistler.
Jean Voigt
