RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF OUTSTANDING EDUCATORS

"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."

"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!"

"Thank you so much for the generous Club Cash grant for our Model United Nations Club. This funding will significantly enhance our activities and initiatives, allowing us to provide enriching experiences for our students. Your support empowers us to create a vibrant community where students can explore their interests, develop their skills, and engage meaningfully with one another. We are excited to put this grant to use and will keep you updated on our progress and the positive impact it has on our members. Thank you once again for believing in our mission and supporting our students."

'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."

"I am grateful to NSHSS for awarding me this grant, which will play a vital role in helping me continue to enhance my work with students. This opportunity allows me to further develop the skills necessary to create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment. Being part of this community has shown me the power of encouragement, support, and resources in breaking down barriers and achieving academic success. I hope my journey inspires others—whether students or fellow educators—to pursue their goals with determination and to believe in their potential to make a meaningful impact."

"I am grateful to NSHSS for awarding me this grant. With their support, I will be now be able to provide a better cross-cultural learning experience to students in my French classes. Without the support of NSHSS, I would not be able to make mastering a second language as authentic and meaningful for students as I now will. Thank you, NSHSS, for your generosity and support of teaching and learning."

"I am truly thankful for this wonderful blessing that was bestowed upon me and my cross country team for this monetary gift in the form of a grant. NSHSS has been a truly awesome program to be a part of that I try to share with my students as a teacher, advisor, and coach. The opportunities that are available are truly top notch. Thank you."

"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 deeply thankful to the NSHSS for awarding me this grant to support the purchase of school supplies for my Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) classroom. These supplies will play a crucial role in ensuring that every student has the tools they need to actively participate in lessons, regardless of their financial background. With your support, I will be able to provide resources that encourage hands-on learning and practical life skills development. Thank you for helping me create an inclusive and engaging learning environment where all students can thrive."