It starts with pencils, Clayton Nylund would like his students to bring them to school. But it's all right if they don't. Nor do they have to worry about notebooks or rulers, Nylund says, "My students are only expected to provide two things for my class: themselves and a focused mind," He finds donors to help with the supplies, and also he pays for some himself.

Nylund, who was recognized Thursday as Hillsborough County Teacher of the Year for his work at Blake High School, is all about helping young peopleexcel in science and technology, regardless of their learning style or background. He noted that "achievement gaps are complicated (复杂的), and so are their solutions."

From the Pinewood Derby cars that students design and build in class to the science and engineering competitions that Blake has entered and won. Nylund stresses technology-rich, hands-on projects that allow students to feel included.

"I have found that if students are offered non-traditional opportunities to achieve, greatness will grow within them, they will begin achieving in new ways, and there will be no limit to what they can realize," Nylund said. What's more, he has found that their scores improve on standardized tests.

Nylund, 39 and a teacher since 2011, was one of three educators who took top honors at Thursday's ceremony (仪式) at the David A. Straz Center for Performing Arts. "I did not see this coming," Nylund said twice, accepting his award, Nylund's award was announced last in the program. He thanked the four principals he has worked for in Hillsborough, his parents, his wife and coworkers. "Teaching is hard, but it's meaningful," he told the audience. "I never go into Blake thinking my day is going to be easy."