TAMPA, Fla. — Dr. Dakeyan Graham, the Director of Instrumental Studies at King High School in Tampa, learned via a surprise announcement Wednesday that he is one of five statewide finalists to be the 2020 "Teacher of the Year."
- Graham once a student at King High School
- Previously named "Teacher of the Year" for Hillsborough County
- Winner will be announced July 18
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“It was a complete shocker,” said Dr. Graham. “It’s almost unfathomable at this point. It really hasn’t set in yet.”
Florida Public Schools K-12 chancellor Jacob Oliva travelled from Tallahassee to surprise Graham with the announcement. Oliva said it’s a privilege to visit Graham’s classroom.
“Guess who‘s in the Top Five?” Oliva asked the students. “It is so clear and evident why these teachers rose to the top for this special occasion.”
Hillsborough Superintendent Jeff Eakins, along with other local and state education leaders, were also at the school to congratulate Graham.
“This is a big deal,” said Eakins. “It really shines a spotlight on the great work that he does, but also the great work that we’re doing here in Hillsborough County Public Schools.”
Graham teaches in a classroom where he used to be a student. A class photo of a teenage Graham holding a saxophone hangs on the wall.
Graham’s current students said he’s a great band director and role model.
“He deserves more than just 'Teacher of the Year,” said Brehnen Walden, 18. “Human of the Year.”
In January, Graham was named Hillsborough County’s 2019 Teacher of Year. Graham said earning this latest accolade at his alma mater is an absolute honor.
“I’m representing a field that has meant so much to me and my family,” he said. “And has just played such an incredible role in my life, is just absolutely amazing.”
The other teacher finalists are from the Sarasota, Indian River, Leon and Hamilton Counties. The winner will be announced at an Orlando gala on July 18.