TUCSON, Ariz. - Cienega American history teacher Matt Johnson doesn't shy away from challenges, such as connecting current events to the past.
Making the connection can be tough for students, but Johnson takes on that challenge every day at Cienega High School.
"Today we're talking about immigration at the turn of the century -- the 1900s," he said. "And we have immigration issues today. I think making those connections to the real world -- why it's relevant to them -- is important."
It's easy to understand his passion for teaching, which he has done for nearly two decades.
"My wife is in education as well," he said. "My mom was a teacher. So education is big for our family."
He is humbled and honored by his selection as a Teacher of the Year candidate.
"We have so many great teachers on campus, so being recognized by the administration, it's a great honor," he said.
