“I remember calling Chandler Woods and hearing about the parental involvement, the Moral Focus™ curriculum, and the high academic expectations. I knew right away it was the right place for my daughter,” Johan shared. Shortly after, he learned of an opening at Ridge Park. With his special education certification in hand and a desire to make an impact, he joined the team and has been there ever since.
Finding a Community at Ridge Park
From the beginning, Johan, Ridge Park’s Dean of Upper Elementary, noticed something different at NHA.
“I saw a passion in the teachers that really stood out. There was a vision, a sense of camaraderie, and a true excitement to be part of something growing,” he recalled.
He started as a resource teacher and, over the years, stepped into new roles, including administrator. Whether teaching in the classroom or leading alongside staff, Johan has always carried one guiding principle: put students first.
Johan Linna presenting students with awards during Ridge Park Charter Academy assembly.
A Moment to Remember
When asked about a favorite memory, Johan lights up while recalling a very special basketball game.
“One of our students, Darren, who had Down Syndrome, was part of our team. With 30 seconds left in the game, his teammates passed him the ball, and he made the shot. The whole gym erupted in joy. It was one of those moments that captured the unity and heart of Ridge Park.”
A Legacy of Passion and Service
Twenty-five years later, Johan remains energized by the diversity, culture, and community at Ridge Park. As someone who was born in Sweden and later became a dual citizen, he values the many cultures represented at the school. “We have families from all over the world, and that makes Ridge Park a truly special place.”
Looking back on his career, Johan is proud of the legacy he is leaving. His leadership, care for students, and unwavering belief in NHA’s Moral Focus curriculum have shaped not just Ridge Park, but countless lives.
Johan Linna recognizing Ridge Park students for their achievements.
Words of Wisdom
For new teachers, Johan’s advice is simple: “Be patient with yourself. The first years will be hard, but it gets easier with time, coaching, and encouragement.”
And for the next 30 years of NHA? Johan hopes that Moral Focus continues to be the heartbeat of the organization. “Character virtues are so important for our younger generation. That’s something I hope NHA always keeps at the center.”
Looking Ahead
After 25 years, Johan continues to be inspired by the students who walk through Ridge Park’s doors. He summed it up best in his own words:
“It has been wonderful to see many of our original Ridge Park students that I serviced 25 years ago that are now sending their own children to Ridge Park. Who knows, if I stick around another 25 years, I could be serving their grandchildren!”
Johan Linna speaking during one of his many assemblies during his 25 years at Ridge Park.
Fun Fact about Johan
Before his career in education, Johan worked in the film industry as a post-production assistant in Hollywood. His name even appears in the credits of the 1990 film Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael starring Winona Ryder and Jeff Daniels!
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About Ridge Park Charter Academy
Ridge Park Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Grand Rapids, Michigan, serving students in Young 5s 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 high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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