RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF OUTSTANDING EDUCATORS

"The importance of offering AP classes has been well documented-study after study reveals that students who are challenged with college level classes have more persistence, better study habits, and greater financial flexibility if they pass the rigorous exams. An AP course structured with a bedrock in the inquiry arc allows students to experience learning at a collegiate level long before they enroll in an undergraduate institution. However, it is the underlying impact that offering college level classes has on an entire school community, whether enrolled in AP classes or not, that makes advanced placement a necessity for any high school. I have been teaching AP World History for four years to mostly freshman students in the south side of Chicago. Preparing students for a high stakes exam was not the reason I got into teaching. My teaching philosophy is rooted in the importance of inquiry and student choice, which allows students to see themselves in the history of the world. When I first began this journey of teaching AP World it seemed impossible to get the majority of my students to pass the exam for college credit, and at the same time fall in love with history as I had long ago. My passion for learning stems from asking tough questions about the hard truths of world history, and then searching for my own answers with the research skills I learned from my professors or teachers. I also knew that passing an AP exam for many of my students is a game changer in a higher education system where costs have skyrocketed for families. With the grant from NSHSS I will be able to better serve the needs of my students by curating a robust research library and bypass frustrating paywalls of the elite research databases. Thank you NSHSS for providing that rigor for my students!"

"Our Art Club is incredibly grateful to have been selected as a recipient of the NSHSS Club Cash Grant. This grant has been instrumental in allowing us to kick off our year with an exciting and ambitious creative project. To start, we are working on a collaborative short film, where our students will have the opportunity to experience every aspect of the filmmaking process, from writing the script to producing, acting, filming, editing, and even composing the soundtrack. This project allows our members to dive into the world of visual storytelling and explore their creativity in ways that build confidence and hone new skills. Following the short film, our students will channel their artistic talents into creating either a graphic novel or a short story, giving them the freedom to express their individual artistic voice while collaborating with their peers. Throughout the remainder of the year, students will continue to explore various fine art mediums, expanding their understanding and appreciation of different techniques and styles. Thanks to the NSHSS Club Cash Grant, we have the resources to offer a dynamic and enriching program that fosters both artistic growth and community collaboration. Thank you, NSHSS, for empowering our students to engage in these unique opportunities and to deepen their passion for the arts!"

"This is the first time I've heard about NSHSS and my first time applying for a grant. At first, I was unsure about it, but I decided to go for it and fill out the application form. I even asked our principal for a recommendation letter. I was so happy and grateful at the same time when I got an email from NSHSS saying my entry was chosen. I didn't expect it, so I'm really happy about it. These funds will be a big help to our club and will make our experience even more meaningful. It's great to know that there are organizations like NSHSS that support student groups like ours."

"Being named the Educator Coach of the year for 2020 by the National Society for High School Scholars has reaffirmed my hard work and dedication to students over the past 35 years of my teaching career. Receiving the $5,000 grant in the midst of the COVID–19 Pandemic has definitely been a blessing since it arrived at a time when it was desperately needed. I am thankful and humbled to have received such an outstanding honor from such a prestigious organization."

"NSHSS is incredible. They are at the forefront of supporting schools, students, and educators. Having a group that truly cares about equity and access for students to achieve is praiseworthy in a world where people don't always see the value in education."

"I am deeply honored to have received this grant, which not only supports my students' artistic journey but also reinforces my commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative minds. Art has the unique power to inspire, heal, and connect us, and with this grant, I am excited to create new opportunities for my students to explore their voices and visions. To all the aspiring scholars and artists out there: your passion and dedication are the seeds of change. Keep pushing boundaries, exploring new ideas, and believing in the impact of your work. Together, we can transform our communities and the world through the beauty of art. Thank you for believing in the power of creativity!"

"Thank you, NSHSS, for helping to provide the tools needed to make my classroom a fun and effective place to learn and grow!"

"I am very grateful for this grant. I feel blessed to be able to do what I love, and love what I do! Music education is invaluable now, more than ever. I will continue my efforts to improve, enhance, promote, and grow, our Music Program."

"I didn't know much about NSHSS before one of my students nominated me for this award. There is a lot that NSHSS is doing for educators and students alike, in terms of grants, scholarships, networking, etc ... Thank you, NSHSS, for recognizing my work as an educator through this grant."