SAN DIEGO -- An Escondido middle school teacher, known as the "Rappin' Mathematician," was chosen to represent California in the "National Teacher of the Year" competition, it was announced Wednesday.

Alex Kajitani, who teaches mathematics at Mission Middle School, was recently named one of five "California Teachers of the Year" by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell.

"I am exceptionally pleased that Alex Kajitani is representing California at the national level," O'Connell said. "I greatly admire his passion for teaching, his creative approach to motivating middle-grade students and his success in making math come alive and relevant."

The "National Teacher of the Year" winner will be selected in the spring and later honored at the White House.