Alvin Davis, a music teacher at Miramar High School who has won county and state recognition, will compete with three other teachers for the National Teacher of the Year award.

He’s already been named top teacher in Broward County and Florida for 2011, but now Miramar High School music teacher Alvin Davis is in the running for National Teacher of the Year.

On Thursday, the Council of Chief State School Officers announced their four finalists for the nation’s top K-12 educator — including Davis who has taught music for the past 11 years.

“Alvin is a competent and passionate educator who makes sure his students have every chance for success,” Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson wrote in a press statement. “He knows that teachers are the most influential factor in a student’s academic accomplishments and I am honored to congratulate him for this nomination.”

As band director, Davis requires a one-hour study hall for all band members, and also pairs students with mentors to track their academic progress. Before Seniors even think about performing in the band, they must show Davis proof that they’ve applied to college and have registered to take their college entrance exams.

As Florida’s Teacher of the Year, Davis also serves as the state’s Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education, visiting schools throughout Florida to speak on education issues.

Davis’s competition for the national prize includes the teachers of the year for Alabama, California, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

The winner will be announced in April and will be honored in a series of events in Washington, D.C. including a Rose Garden ceremony with the President, said Kate Dando, spokeswoman for the program.

By Laura Figueroa
lfigueroa@MiamiHerald.com

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