“Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.”—Flavia Weedn
Genesis Classical Academy cordially invites all friends of GCA to a retirement/farewell open house for Ms. Lois Willmert, Mrs. Annette Jenkins, Mrs. MaryJean Miller, and Ms. Ali Wilkinson. The open house will be held on Monday, May 20th from 4:00 – 5:30 pm at Genesis Classical Academy in Dikkers Hall, 211 6th St NW, Winnebago, MN.
Lois Willmert was a well-loved teacher at Winnebago Elementary for more than 30 years, and taught many of the parents of our current Genesis students. Four years ago, she left retirement to become one of the founding board members of Genesis Classical Academy, and has served as the curriculum director for the school. Ms. Willmert will be retiring from her curriculum duties, but will continue to serve on the Board of Directors.
Ms. Willmert says “I have been teaching since 1974, and I have been blessed in my teaching career in Winnebago. I’ve experienced working with great teachers, staff, students, and parents. The opportunity to participate in Genesis Classical Academy has been the ‘cherry on the top.’ Blessings to all of you.”
Annette Jenkins has been the music director at Genesis Classical Academy since the inception of the school in the fall of 2015. This is her 30th year of teaching, and in retirement, she looks forward to spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, and traveling.
Mrs. Jenkins says, “I admire the staff, who are so committed to educating these children, leading them in their faith journey and guiding them as they mature into fine young men and women. I have enjoyed teaching classroom music, piano and guitar lessons to the students these past four years. What a joy it’s been to watch them grow in their theory and performance skills! Through their music they have proclaimed their faith in Christ to so many people. I certainly will miss their smiles and voices.”
MaryJean Miller began her teaching career in 1969 – 50 years ago! In 2017, she came out of retirement to teach at Genesis Classical Academy, and has taught a music-infused classroom of energetic first graders.
Mrs. Miller reflects, “I think our student/elderly connection with Parker Oaks is what makes our school unique among classical schools. It is also a great community service project. It is the highlight of the week when our students read, sing and visit with their elderly friends.”
Ali Wilkinson for the past two years has assisted with marketing and web promotion at GCA. She has also directed art and basketball summer camps, and this year, Ali has taught 2nd – 7th grade art. With her marriage this coming August to Burabari Kordah, she begins a new and exciting chapter in her life! Although Ms. Wilkinson will no longer be on campus, she will continue to assist the school with graphic design and marketing.
Please join us in thanking these dedicated staff members for their contributions to Genesis Classical Academy, and wishing them well in the future.