Achieving independence

By Bil Lewis
Reader Contributor

As a history teacher who dresses and performs as James Madison, the most important thing in  the world for me is that my students gain an appreciation for the times, challenges and people who created this incredible country. The better they understand the realities of human behavior, the less likely they will be to repeat the mistakes of the past. That’s why the Symposium for Civic and History Education at Boise State University was so exciting for me, and for the 100 other Idaho teachers who attended. 

It is not merely the sessions (which I shall brag about presently), but the interaction with other teachers, the explorations of different pedagogies and the creation of friendships. I came in costume, of course, and embraced my role as an outgoing, enthusiastic figure, happy to talk, happy to listen, happy to pose for pictures. Everyone was so warm and friendly. I like to think I warmed the place up a bit myself.

My favorite sessions were the ones that combined history and student involvement. Back in the ’60s, our teachers were not so excited about that. History class was kinda dull.

I was richly rewarded with Chris Caban (West Ada School District), who used hexagonal cards on which he wrote events, people, ideas, etc., and asked us as groups to organize the various topics in some fashion, with adjoining edges indicating closeness. This required us to discuss the topics. Sometimes one of us would need to explain one of them, then decide how they should be related — by time? by individuals involved? by location?

The strength of this was not the organizations themselves, but rather the discussion, thought and compromise required to create them. And it was fun. I like fun.

In her presentation, Kim Lewis (Bear Lake Middle School) led us through some modern, electronic magic that allowed her to plot on a map whatever kind of event she could find. She used Paul Revere’s ride as an example. She has her kids plot their ancestors.

Shaun Nichols (Boise State) led an interesting discussion on Hamilton, Madison and Jefferson, on their presumed views on what independence meant. I think it was supposed to be a lecture, but there was so much to discuss that it broke down into more of a conversation.

But what a discussion! Was Hamilton a rich man’s shill? He certainly worked hard to get them to

support our fledgling nation. Was Jefferson’s head lost in the clouds? A land of yeoman farmers? Buy all our manufactured goods from Europe? I love thinking about such issues.

The second day ended with a wonderful talk by Madison Boynton (Cadwell School District),

who commented that as a newer teacher, it has been a challenging but amazing opportunity to institute National History Day into her classroom. My goal heading into the Symposium for Civic and History Education was to introduce fellow educators to NHD and how they might implement it into their own classrooms.

As a history teacher, it was rewarding to share strategies and ideas with fellow educators who are passionate about helping students connect with history in meaningful ways. I enjoyed discussing how National History Day encourages students to think critically, conduct original research and develop skills that extend far beyond the history classroom. Presenting also became a learning experience for me. The thoughtful questions, conversations and feedback from attendees gave me new perspectives and ideas that I’m excited to incorporate into my own classroom.

I enjoy opportunities like the Symposium for Civic and History Education because they encourage connection with teachers from across the state to hear how they approach similar challenges and build relationships with educators who are equally committed to student success. Beyond my own session, I left the conference inspired by the many presentations I attended, as well as keynote speakers, and the enthusiasm of the educators I met. The experience reminded me that professional growth happens not only by learning from experts, but also by sharing our own experiences with one another.

When not impersonating James Madison, Bil Lewis lives in Priest River. To learn more about the Symposium for Civic and History Education, email [email protected].