As our last project for the school year, my Dual Credit US History students were placed in groups of three or four and assigned a music genre to research. The final project that they turned in was a video history (a documentary of sorts) for their given genre. The History of American Music. Because it … Continue reading Classic Rock
When our COVID lock down began in March, my wife and I wanted to create some sort of normality in the household for our sake, but especially for the kids. One of the daily routines that happened organically was our trip to the mailbox at around 3:00 every afternoon once my wife and I were done working from home for the day.
As a teacher (and forever a student) of US History, one of my favorite presidents is Franklin Roosevelt. Whether or not one agrees with his policy actions, the thing that most impresses me when I read about Roosevelt is how in tune with the American people he was throughout his time in office. Sure he … Continue reading Freedoms
One of the nice things about being a history nerd is that it's often easy to find good deals on books. If you're patient enough, even highly acclaimed books will show up in the bargain section of the book store, as recently happened when I found Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton for $5. If it would … Continue reading Hamilton
After finishing the entire Harry Potter series this summer, I began reading more fiction than normal...normal for me, that is. I will pick up a novel on occasion, but primarily, I stick to nonfiction, mainly history or economics. Yes, I like reading about old dead guys and the dismal science. That’s my idea of a … Continue reading Fiction
Once upon a time, I would hear politicians speak of returning the United States to its “Founding Principles,” and I would simply chalk it up to a type of misguided patriotism - the “Spirit of 1776,” if you will. Recently, I’ve come to realize that either through my own naivety or a lack of understanding … Continue reading Ideals
In the days leading up to the Cub Scout camping trip that we went on in October, my son asked over and over if we would be able to go fishing while we were there.
Three years ago today, I lost my dad.His bad habits are what eventually killed him, but he was an extraordinary man who did not fully embrace his own capabilities. He was by far the smartest man I've ever known, and I'm fortunate that I inherited a little bit of that. He was my mentor and one … Continue reading Heroes
Today, I started the fifth week of school.I managed to survive the first four weeks, and I finally feel like I'm mostly caught up...for now. As any teacher can tell you, there is always work to do, even over the summer. It just happens from time to time that there may not be anything pressing … Continue reading Breathing
When I first began teaching AP US History, I thought I knew a great deal about our nation's history. I was wrong. Partly through completing graduate school, partly from leisure reading, and partly out of necessity, I've learned more about US History in the past nine years than I could possibly teach to my students … Continue reading Backward
Reflections Of A Middle Aged Nobody 