An Escondido middle school teacher, known as the "Rappin' Mathematician," is one of four finalists for the "National Teacher
of the Year" award, it was announced today.
Alex Kajitani, who teaches mathematics at Mission Middle School, was named in November as one of five "California Teachers of the Year" by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell.
O'Connell later selected Kajitani to represent California in the national competition.
"It's really just such an amazing honor," Kajitani, 35, told the North County Times. "There's so many outstanding educators across the country. It's just an amazing opportunity to get the word out about the great work teachers are doing throughout the United States."
Teachers from Colorado, Connecticut and North Carolina were also named as national finalists. The winner will be announced in April.
