Woodstock Senior Named Best English Learner In Georgia

WOODSTOCK, Ga. — A Woodstock High School senior has earned a top award from the Georgia Department of Education.

Albani Andreina Arenas Tovar has earned the Excellence in English Learner Education Award, which recognizes an English learner who has excelled in her school and community. Tovar and her teacher, Jamie Vogan, both were recognized in a recent ceremony at the State Capitol by State Superintendent of Schools Richard Woods.

Since arriving from Venezuela in January, Tovar has established herself as an English learner leader, by not only dedicating herself to acquiring the academic English needed to be successful in school, but also by supporting her peers with the multiple languages she speaks and by becoming involved in her school and community. She is a member of the school’s Interact Club, Spanish Honors Society, and chorus and volunteers at her church. Tovar plans to attend college to pursue a career as a teacher for English learners.

Tovar nominated Vogan as her outstanding teacher.

"She is a special teacher because she understands the struggles English learners have when they are trying to learn a new language in a new school and shows great patience and care for each student," Tovar said.