Originally from Upstate NY, I am in my 19th year of teaching 7th and 8th (sometimes 6th) grade Social Studies at TR. I have a BA in History and Political Science, and my MA in Education. My wife Katie and I are very blessed, raising our two children: Quinn who is 7 and Everett, who is 5.

7th Grade SS is Modern World History. We look at the geography of Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East and Central and South America. We journey through Europe during the Roman Empire and into the Dark Ages, finishing in the Renaissance. We learn about religions, like Islam and Christianity. We will take a look at Ancient China, looking at various Chinese inventions and dynasties. We'll finish the year with European Exploration into the new world, focusing on the Mayan, Aztec and Inca civilizations as well as several explorers. Castles are always a nice treat when the kids make them and our world fair displays a taste of several countries around the world. Every Monday, we play current events Kahoot, to keep up what's going on in our world.

8th Grade SS is US History and Government. We will start with the geography of the US and dive into Colonial America. From there, we focus on the American Revolution. US Government is a malleable part of our curriculum. Manifest Destiny is next, heading westward and then focusing on the Civil War and its outcome. We end the year with World War I, and I wish I had more time with my kids to discuss more. Our Colonial America wax museum combines history, with some public speaking and in depth research.

The best way to work with families in meeting my kids' educational needs is communication with their parents. My classroom door is always open.