Missi Schultz, teacher at Wickliffe High School
Missi Schultz is in her 31st year of teaching. Her primary focus is working in a dual credit elective called, “The Learn. Lead. Serve. Service Learning Program.” She also teaches two other dual credit electives, 20th Century Genocide, 21st Century Conflict, and a drama elective.
What’s so important to you about connecting your students to local history and issues?
Part of making history relevant for our students is connecting it to their lives now. Using our local history partnered with current societal issues enables our students to thoroughly understand the impact of former policies and decision-making. They realize that decisions made now can positively or negatively impact various communities for generations. Our students will then hopefully be empowered to help shape future public policy for the common good.
How has Teaching Cleveland impacted your teaching? Your students’ understanding of themselves and their place?
I was fortunate to participate in a Teaching Cleveland professional development through my school district. This initial experience was so impactful that I made a conscious effort to participate in various Learning Labs, and now the Student Challenge. Teaching Cleveland has given me outstanding resources to connect my content to the community. The opportunities to connect with like-minded educators have also expanded my learning network. It has also given me diverse perspectives that I now bring to the classroom. I feel that I am able to facilitate community-based initiatives with more fidelity, as my knowledge of local issues is stronger. Teaching Cleveland has helped me to be a more well-rounded educator.
The Student Challenge has given my students a new outlook on sustainability in Northeast Ohio. By learning the history of environmental policy in our region, my students have been engaged to look at our own Wickliffe community. They are working together to bring attention to sustainable energy solutions for our school district and the city. Another aspect that has been important to my Student Challenge group has been the lasting relationships they are making with other students from throughout the region. The chance to come together to explore environmental policy and new solutions has aided my students with a much broader outlook on their community and the world.
What about Teaching Cleveland stands out to you?
Teaching Cleveland is such a valuable local resource that I feel area teachers don’t utilize enough. The Teaching Cleveland staff has vast knowledge and appreciation for the issues that affect our community – past and present. They are adept at engaging educators in expanding their professional knowledge. Teaching Cleveland builds strong community relationships through the history we should all know. I recommend Teaching Cleveland to all educators in Northeast Ohio!
