TKA Teacher Honored

Deborah Rantin, a high school teacher at the King’s Academy, recently received JCI Florida’s Congress of Outstanding Young Floridian Award.

The Ralph M. Williams Jr. Memorial Award is given to a young teacher between the ages of 18 and 40 who has made the greatest contribution to the teaching profession and is the most effective classroom teacher in Florida.

Rantin, who teaches 12th grade economics at TKA and is the accreditation coordinator, is working to finish her education doctorate in organizational leadership at Nova Southeastern University. Prior to joining TKA, she was a K-8 principal at the age of 26.

Rantin also has coached at all levels of girls volleyball to four district titles, three regional titles and three consecutive FHSAA state final four appearances. She volunteers and fundraises with organizations on the side.

“I’m very happy to be nominated, and shocked to even be a recipient,” Rantin said. “I just love what I do.”

ABOVE: Deborah Rantin