Monroe Social Studies Teachers Shine at National Conference in Boston
Pictured left to right: Jamie Sherry, Instructional Leader Emily Woznick, Megan Bartosik Pictured left to right: Emily Woznick, Megan Bartosik, Jamie Sherry, Matthew Cacace, Joseph Philbrick
On November 22, 2024, Masuk High School Social Studies teachers Emily Woznick and Megan Bartosik, along with Instructional Leader Jamie Sherry, showcased their innovative teaching methods at the National Council for Social Studies (NCSS) conference in Boston. Their presentation, "Teaching the Enlightenment Through Live-Action Activities," captivated an audience of educators eager to reimagine how they teach complex historical concepts.
The session highlighted how Masuk students delve into Enlightenment thinkers such as Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, researching their philosophies and then stepping into their roles through dynamic activities like a Philosopher’s Bowl. In this exercise, students embody their assigned philosopher, answering questions in a philosopher v. philosopher mini-debate and then the next round, two different philosophers battle it out.
Educators attending the presentation praised the creativity and practicality of the approach. One attendee shared, "This was so great because I always struggle to teach the Enlightenment," while another noted, "I could even use these projects in my other classes with different historical figures."
In addition to the presenters, Masuk teacher Susan Clark and Jockey Hollow teachers Matthew Cacace and Joseph Philbrick also attended the conference. They explored new strategies and resources to bring back to their classrooms, further enriching the district's commitment to exceptional social studies instruction.
Masuk’s presence at the NCSS conference underscores the district’s dedication to fostering engaging, research-based learning experiences that empower students to think critically and connect with history in meaningful ways.