KING CITY — John Miller, Monterey County’s Teacher of the Year in 2016, was recognized March 28 by the King City Council for his outstanding teaching.
Miller, a history teacher at Chalone Peaks Middle School in King City, has left an impact on the community and his students. He is well known for using the popular video game, “Minecraft,” in his classrooms to help students retain history knowledge by making them go through tasks similar to what same-age children or figures would have gone through in the past.
“He became a teacher to change the world by mentoring and inspiring future generations,” Mayor Mike Lebarre said. “John Miller works to provide his students with an experience that allows them to explore learning and understanding on their own terms.”
Miller has over 25 years of classroom experience and a “Minecraft” developer in education curriculum. He is a certified mentor and trainer in “Minecraft” and holds a master’s degree in educational technology.
“He is a master of ‘Minecraft,’” Mayor Pro-Tem Carlos Victoria said. “Everybody loves being in his class.”
Miller was selected as a finalist for California Teacher of the Year.
“It’s been a wonderful experience,” Miller said. “Going through the process for the Teacher of the Year has been grueling. It has required a lot of reflection.”
