TAMPA, Fla (WFLA) — On Wednesday morning, dozens of students and faculty at Middleton High School in Tampa, gathered in the courtyard to honor a teacher who vanished during a hike in the Grand Canyon.
Floyd Roberts teaches business technology and web design at Middleton High. He disappeared on June 18 after park officials said he split off from his hiking group. That was more than a month ago and there’s still no sign of him.
National Park Service crews desperately searched for Roberts. They said he disappeared in the western portion of the park. Rescuers searched by ground and air. Weather was also a factor. The National Weather Service had issued an extensive heat warning when Roberts vanished.
The students haven’t given up hope. “Absolutely not. We’re still praying for a miracle. We’re still hopeful and we’re still praying every single day. We’re hoping for his return and hoping for him to come back,” said Middleton High School junior Max Michel.
The students also planted a tree in the courtyard in honor Roberts. “So, that we can honor the legacy that Mr. Roberts left and to remember what he did for our school and to just never let that flame go down.”
Parents, school leaders and students all agree, Roberts is a fantastic teacher and is truly missed.
“He was someone who passionate about students and passionate about kids thinking for themselves and kids having their own independence. And that’s what he woke up for every single day… showing up for school,” Michel said.
