Around the World in 180 Days

After teaching Government and Economics at the high school level, it was certainly eye-opening to be placed in front of middle school students. 17 years later, however, I am having a blast teaching 8th grade US History and 7th grade World History.

For me, the formula for delivering an effective lesson is simple: tell a good story. History is rife with abstract concepts – so incorporate visuals, actively involve them in each lesson, challenge them to think critically, and – above all – make it relevant. Allow students to demonstrate their understanding through a variety of methods: writing an essay, illustrating the Bill of Rights or designing their own political cartoon on Andrew Jackson, creating a journal of the Oregon Trail, singing the Preamble to the Constitution (Schoolhouse Rock is awesome!).

Department Chair State Finalist, History Day California (2012-2018)

M.Ed., California State University, Los Angeles Single Subject Credential (CLAD), California Lutheran University B.A., University of California, San Diego

When not making adjustments to my curriculum, I love spending time with my wife and the “Apple Dumpling Gang,” our Siberian Huskies Sasha and Abbigail and our German Shepherd Shadow. If we ever move to Alaska, we have our very own sled team.