Even with just three days left in the school year, Ethel Kight Magnet School teacher Charlotte Flores admitted to a co-teacher she was a little irked her instruction time was being interrupted for a surprise assembly.

The school’s teacher of the year was softened, however, and even brought to tears when it turned out to be all about her. The school system, and Flores in particular, were honored with the United Way’s “Live United” award.

“I’ve known this lady a long time, and she is truly a special lady,” said Linda McMullen, United Way of West Georgia board chairman.

The local United Way decided to give out a series of “Live United” awards this year – honoring businesses and individuals who exemplify the organization’s spirit of “give, advocate, volunteer.” While most of the ceremonies have been low-key, the school called the assembly for Flores and she received flowers for her honor along with a visit from her husband Anton and sons, Jairo, 10, and Eli, 7.

Aside from her work at the school, Charlotte and Anton Flores founded Alterna, an outreach program which assists immigrant families in the area in a number of ways. She was one of the original tutors in the DASH after school tutoring program and translates for Hispanic students and families at the school.

“Imagine the panic of a non-English speaking parent when the school calls because of an emergency,” Ethel Kight principal Anne Cook said, in reading Flores’ litany of accomplishments and volunteer work. “Mrs. Flores is able to translate, which is a great relief to the parent, the teacher and the child.”

Superintendent Ed Smith, who was on hand to help surprise Flores, said he was pleased to see her honored.

“Wow,” he said, after Cook read her accomplishments to the students and staff. “I thought I knew her well, but I learned a lot this morning.”

Flores said it was a privilege to work for the school.

“I’ve been allowed to totally integrate my life, which makes it rewarding,” she said.

Smith also was pleased with the school system’s award. The system’s teachers and staff are hit with the need of the 29 United Way of West Georgia agencies daily, but contributing financial support is “a personal decision,” he said.

“I’m grateful that so many people value the work of the organization,” he said.