CBS News correspondent Byron Pitts reports that Davis is more than the music teacher and band director. He's old-school, no-nonsense, and an inspiration.
"I see every report card. I see every interim, and if the grades aren't up to par, they're gonna take a break from being in my program," Davis said.
Davis' program was key to Miramar High's turn around. The band grew from 40 students to 150 and became the pride of the school. Ninety-percent of Miramar students graduate, but nobody beats the band. For four years in a row, 100 percent of the band has graduated and gone on to college. Davis said his kids would probably describe him as "rough."
"His number one priority and goal is to get all of us to college," said Sandra Romero, a member of the band.
Davis doesn't just get kids to college, he keeps them there. Andrew Wan is one of Davis' former students. Like Davis, Wan enrolled at Florida A&M University and joined the famous MARCHING 100 band. When college got tough Wan wanted out.
"He said it so simply: 'If you quit band now and you come back home, what are you gonna do?'" Wan said.
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Miramar High School (Florida) teacher Alvin Davis named finalist for nation’s top educator
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| Miramar High School Director of Bands Alvin A. Davis is a finalist for the 2012 National Teacher of the Year. The Chicago native and Florida A&M University graduate is Broward County and Florida's 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.
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