OUR COMMITMENT TO
SUPPORT 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!"

"I am beyond grateful to NSHSS for awarding me the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion grant. This grant is an incredible support for my Theatre program and will make a meaningful impact in the lives of my students. Thank you NSHSS for your commitment to arts education and for believing in the power of theatre to transform lives. I can't wait to put this grant to work at the Texas Thespian festival and I look forward to sharing the results of your investment with our community."

"It has been amazing to see that the NSHSS supports not just students, but also teachers. These grants allow teachers to explore new areas and try unique ideas that might not have been previously possible."

"I am deeply honored and grateful to have been selected for the $1,000 STEAM Educator Grant. This award greatly boosts my efforts to foster a love for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics among my students. Your recognition and support affirm the importance of our work in education and inspire me to continue pushing boundaries in STEAM learning. The grant will greatly enhance my ability to implement innovative projects and provide valuable resources for my classroom. I am excited to channel this funding into initiatives that will engage and inspire the next generation of innovators. Thank you for believing in my work's impact and investing in the future of education. Your generosity will make a significant difference in my students’ learning experiences. I look forward to sharing the positive outcomes and successes that arise from this grant. Once again, thank you for your support and for making this opportunity possible."

"I am excited and thankful to NSHSS for selecting me for this grant award. NSHSS grants and awards are truly prestigious, and I look forward each year to not only participate in the writing and competition, but also nominating my students for NSHSS scholarships."

"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."

'Thank you for this opportunity to use the grant funds to continue the pursuit of my EdD in Educational Policy and Organizational Leadership. This degree is deepening my understanding of myself as an educator and how I can directly impact change in the communities I serve."

"On behalf of our new high school Culinary Club, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for the generous grant you have awarded us. This funding will significantly enhance our ability to explore the culinary arts, providing our students with valuable opportunities to develop their skills and creativity. Your support will enable us to acquire essential kitchen equipment, high-quality ingredients, and educational resources that are crucial for our budding chefs. We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to fostering educational enrichment and hands-on learning experiences. Thank you for believing in our vision and helping us bring our culinary dreams to life."

"I am very grateful that organizations such as these exist. It gives me that extra confidence that is needed in the education world to know that my students will not be negated an opportunity to be creative and be able to explore through research or academic coursework."