Canton Still Top Teacher in St. Michael-Albertville's Book

After more than three months, it all came down to three hours. After that, Ryan Canton, St. Michael-Albertville Middle School West history teacher, could finally do what he wanted.

Collapse on his couch and take a nap.

No, Canton didn't come back from the Minnesota Teacher of the Year honors with the top prize. However, as one of 10 finalists, selected from the top 120 teachers who were nominated across the state, the fifth-year educator was told by many that it wouldn't be his first trip to the annual banquet last weekend.

"I had a few people tell me to stick with it, and that I would be back," Canton said. "I don't know if that's true, but it truly was a great process, and one that kind of reaffirms you as a teacher and what you believe in. In all grades in disciplines, there are some people doing tremendous work all over the state."

Canton was nominated last fall by Principal Andrew Merfeld, who recognized Canton's "connection" with his students.

"I nominated [Ryan] because of his relentless pursuit to engage students in 21^st century learning through an extraordinary connection with students, paired with a passion for integrating technology within the classroom," Merfeld said.

Canton was humbled.

"It was really an honor because, I know it's cliche, there are so many great teachers in this building," Canton said.

The process for Canton included interviews, essays, a portfolio and taking a stand on education issues. Canton focused on education funding, and the lack of equitable funding formulas in Minnesota.

"You're ZIP code should not determine the value of your education. And we're fortunate, because in St. Michael we've been able to do more with less. We're in the top 15 percent of school districts in terms of academics, but in the bottom 10 percent in terms of what we spend. That's a credit to our administrators."

The process culminated with this weekend's festivities for the 10 finalists and the members of Education Minnesota, the teachers' union in the state.

"Friday was a great opportunity for us to meet each other, and see that they selected some amazing people. You realize pretty quickly that these are people who are very good at what they do," Canton said.

The winner of Minnesota Teacher of the Year, , will now have a whirlwind of an experience ahead of her.

But all is not lost for Canton, who made some great connections, and will probably be leaned on again as a Teacher of the Year finalist.

"If somone like [Minnesota Public Radio] turns to Education Minnesota and asks for a panel of teachers on a topic, they'll often come to the finalists. So there's an opportunity to stay involved, and to support the Teacher of the Year program. I'd really encourage any teacher who is nominated to do it," Canton said. "It's been a tremendous experience."