The special event, created by Principal Heather McNees, provided time for teachers to learn about the incredible difference they’ve made in the lives of their students. The graduates wrote personal letters expressing how a staff member made an impact, and honored teachers received a letter written by the students and a shirt that says, “I was the one for a 2026 Phoenix Academy Senior!”
Phoenix Academy senior Joshua Littlejohn chose to honor his high school science teacher Zachary Hoke as someone who showed him trust, encouragement, and mentorship throughout his time at the school.
Littlejohn, a standout in academics and athletics for the Firebirds, is planning to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the fall and is leaning toward a career in psychology.
“Ever since I began taking his course in high school, I've built a connection with him that I've never felt with any other teacher,” Littlejohn said. “I'm comfortable enough to ask for help even when my question sounds 'stupid,' and I can always rely on him for a recommendation letter whenever I decide to take different opportunities. Yet, those reasons alone aren't the core of my inspiration; it's how much trust he has in my abilities as a biology student.
“He isn't just a teacher, he's a mentor---someone who genuinely cares for the people around him and doesn't treat them as a name on a roster. I would love to take this opportunity to thank him for everything he's done for me in the three years he's taught me, and to anyone who may take his classes to not take him for granted because you'll miss him once you've graduated.”
Those kind words and more were shared by several graduates during the event.
Senior Gavin Duke shared his appreciation for middle and high school music teacher Keri Truhe, who helped him find a special connection with music during a switch from alto to tenor saxophone. He explained the deeper meaning that move had in his letter to Truhe.
“It was a turning point I didn’t see coming. It wasn’t just about a deeper range; it felt like I finally found the voice I was supposed to have all along. You were there through that entire transition, guiding me through the frustration of relearning my embouchure and helping me find my footing when I felt like I was starting over.
“Because of the environment you built in that band room, music stopped being a requirement and became a genuine passion. You taught me that playing isn’t just about hitting the right notes at the right tempo; it's about the discipline and the soul you put into the performance. That lesson has bled into every other part of my life. The determination I feel now, the drive to practice and the need to improve, is a direct result of the high standards you held me to and the belief you had in my potential, even when I was just a kid trying to get an easy grade.”
Duke went on to thank Truhe for sticking with him through all the squeaky notes of sixth grade to help make him the musician he is today.
“I am more determined than ever to keep playing and to carry the passion you ignited in me wherever I go next. You didn’t just teach me how to play an instrument; you taught me how to find a purpose in what I do.”
During his senior year, Duke has been dual enrolled at Phoenix and Guilford Technical Community College to pursue a certificate in residential HVAC. After graduation he will finish up classwork at GTCC and begin an apprenticeship.
Congratulations Phoenix Academy seniors and thank you to all the staff who helped prepare these graduates for college, career, and life!
About Phoenix Academy
Phoenix Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in High Point, North Carolina, serving students in kindergarten through high school. 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 high school grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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