Polk teacher of the year overcame adversity to inspire students
Jennifer Epstein reports
LAKELAND, Fla. - Maude Graham has many titles. She is a teacher, a mentor, a student and she can now add winner to the list. Mrs. Graham is 2021 s Polk County Teacher of the Year. I don t know if you can hear it in my voice, I am still in shock. There are so many deserving teachers in Polk County, Graham said in disbelief.
Selected from seven finalists, Graham received her award during a small, socially distanced banquet back in January. Nearly four months later, she says she s still surprised.