Al Tang (right) of Troy Michigan has become the youngest ever Teacher of the Year at just 15. Despite his young age, he has been actively teaching go in multiple locations for five years. “As a high school student and an active AGA 5-Dan player, Albert demonstrates a rare ability to convey complex strategic ideas into clear, engaging lessons that resonate with students of all ages,” writes Yilun Yang 7p. “He teaches not merely moves, but the spirit of Go — patience, balance, resilience, and thoughtful decision making.”
Tang has established and sustained go classes and summer camps for both youth and adults, and developed after school go programs offering free lessons to K-12 students, expanding access to Go regardless of family income. He has also provided online go lessons to young players across the United States and Canada, including games, game reviews, and fun strategy development sessions, and providing students in areas without local go instructors a path to improve.
“Albert has an exceptional ability to connect with students,” writes Longlong Zhou, Director of the Longlong School of the Arts. “He is patient, respectful, and thoughtful in the way he explains Go, making the game both understandable and enjoyable for children of all ages and skill levels.”
When Tang heard from a parent that their child had ADHD and thought they couldn't participate, he took it as a challenge to improve his teaching. He Developed specialized teaching methods for the student, emphasizing short, structured learning that included breaks to improve focus, engagement, and successful skill development. Parents and teachers were impressed, and his initiative was formally incorporated into the Michigan state Individualized Education Programs (IEP), integrating Go as a supportive instructional tool for students with special learning needs.
“Albert stands out as one of the most capable, responsible, and compassionate young educators I have encountered. He brings solid knowledge of the Go game, careful preparation, and a calm, encouraging presence to every class he teaches,” adds Zhou.
Tang will hold a Teacher of the Year Roundtable discussion at the Go Congress at 5 pm on Thursday July 30th, in the Norumbega Room at the Boston Marriott. Teachers and other interested parties are invited to attend.