Country music softly plays and a cow eating a pumpkin is displayed on the computer screen.

“It’s a picture that my wife took when we went on vacation. Well, she went on vacation I was still working,” said Andrew Kearns, math teacher, and the Teacher of the Year at Krop.

“I was surprised when I was informed I was a finalist for the award, there are so many good teachers out there, and I’m just doing what I love to do,” Kearns said.

Kearns was voted as the Teacher of the Year at Krop and for ACCESS Center 2. He was later selected as one of five finalists for district Teacher of the Year.

Principle George Nuñez congratulated Kearns “on this well deserved recognition,” over the morning announcements.

Jean Rosenfield, administrative assistant, emphasized that Kearns is a teacher of teachers. He instructs teachers all over the U.S. When these teachers teach their students, it means that he is affecting so many lives.

Kearns has taught mathematics ranging from AP Calculus to remedial courses. He is also a consultant for the College Board and is serving as a writer for the College Success Initiative (CSI) for middle and high school mathematics (grades 6 – 12).

Kearns heads the faculty for Miami Dade County Pacesetter mathematics, leading both summer and midyear meetings.

He also presented Pacesetter Mathematics and correlated district curriculum in various school districts; he is currently serving as lead mathematics trainer, lead facilitator, and conducting teacher inservice institutes at national, regional, and local levels across the country.

Kearns was also the head soccer coach for both Miami Southridge and Miami Killian. He loves playing soccer, bicycling, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities.

“ I didn’t expect to win the award, because I don’t teach to win an award,” Kearns said,“but it’s nice to be recognized by my peers, for doing a good job.”

Though Kearns believes he’s just doing his job, many of his students think otherwise.

In one afternoon Mr. Kearns receives multiple visits by students as well as co-workers, some students just pop their heads in to say “hi” and then leave.

“Mr. Kearns was the only teacher who actually made me understand algebra in a humorous way,” said former student Marcy Fernandez.

“(A good teacher is) somebody who has a love for the content they teach, for the students, and for the art of teaching... some one who enjoys what you’re doing,” Kearns said. “ If your not having fun, your not doing the job correctly.”

Kearns advises all students seeking success at Krop to use all (their) resources, like using your teachers, classmates, and facilities at your school. Be an active learner.”

Kearns decided that if he recieves further nominations he will withdraw from the race because it interferes with his teaching.