I am a high school social studies educator with more than a decade of experience teaching government and civics, U.S. history, geography, economics, and interdisciplinary social studies.
My teaching helps students understand how political institutions developed, how government decisions affect people’s lives, and how citizens can participate thoughtfully in public life. Students investigate meaningful questions, examine evidence, discuss competing ideas, and apply their learning through projects, simulations, and civic experiences.
My primary teaching focus is high school government, civics, and U.S. history.
Inquiry and Evidence
Students investigate meaningful questions, analyze sources, evaluate claims, and develop evidence-based conclusions.
Discussion and Civic Practice
Structured discussions, simulations, and civic projects help students explain ideas, listen across differences, and practice public decision-making.
Accessible and Challenging Learning
Clear structures, strong relationships, and multiple ways to engage help students take intellectual risks without lowering expectations.
Allies and Adversaries
Utah State Board of Education and PBLWorks
Through the USBE/PBLWorks inquiry pilot, I taught and evaluated a project-based U.S. history unit examining U.S.–Soviet relations from World War II through the Cold War. I provided classroom-based feedback on student engagement, pacing, directions, instructional supports, and implementation needs.
Democracy in Dialogue
Smithsonian Institution
Through Democracy in Dialogue, students explored identity, belonging, civic discussion, and community action. They practiced listening across differences, discussing difficult questions, developing their civic voices, and considering how informed dialogue can contribute to meaningful action.
Secondary Social Studies Resource Curation
Utah Education Network
As a UEN Secondary Social Studies Resource Curator, I reviewed standards-aligned resources for historical accuracy, accessibility, instructional value, and practical classroom use. This work supported educators across Utah in finding and adapting high-quality materials for their students.