This year Phoenix Military academy is introducing Ms.Novak, a new sophomore English teacher. She previously worked in the business world for eight years and then decided to delve into teaching. This led to her working at Truman College for a year teaching English 101 and later working at John Hope High School in the Englewood community for 15 years teaching English and Speech.

Ms.Novak heard about Phoenix from a former Phoenix teacher, Mrs.Godziszewski who talked highly about the students.

“When we had meetings or professional development I would hear Mrs.Godziszewski talk about the students at PMA in such a positive light. When the opportunity to interview at Phoenix came up, I jumped at the chance and was thrilled when I was offered the position,” said Ms.Novak.

Currently, Ms.Novak works with the Drama Club as well as co-sponsoring NHS with Mrs.Flint. She also likes to spend her free time running and participating in marathons, as well as dancing, writing and playing with her four cats.

Another thing that Ms.Novak appreciates about Phoenix, besides the students, is the atmosphere and how it’s full of school pride.

“One of the first things I noticed about the environment here at Phoenix is that everyone has a strong sense of school pride and school spirit. I felt welcomed since my first day here,” said Ms. Novak.