Harford County Public Schools

In Dawn Jester’s 6th grade Contemporary World Geography class at North Harford Middle School in Harford County, the conversations range from political systems and market structures to choosing meals and playing sports. The latter subjects may sound odd for a social studies class, but according to the veteran teacher, that’s exactly the point.

“My students initially think of money when I introduce economics,” explained Dawn. “But that perception changes when I convey the nature of economic decision making; every day we're faced with decisions and choices - all of which have opportunity costs, incentives, and benefits. The range of topics they can relate to draws them in.”

Dawn - a teacher of more than 21 years - has been leveraging MCEE’s educator training to refine her teaching practice and engage students.

“I’ve been attending MCEE’s programs for more than 20 years,” explained Dawn. “They not only help educators who may not yet be comfortable teaching this content, but also veteran teachers looking for new concepts and tools for their work with students.”

Dawn’s approach to teaching works. “Once students understand the breadth of economic thinking, the lightbulb goes off and we start applying it everywhere. Despite being just 10 or 11, my students truly begin thoughtfully discussing decisions of all kinds - sports, meals, markets and more. They know more than many might give them credit for!”

Dawn’s methods have been so impactful with students that MCEE enlists her to share her insights at its professional development programs, including workshops and collaborative sessions that give teachers tools and knowledge to enhance their teaching in the classroom.

Said Dawn, “As a presenter, I’m challenged to improve, refine, learn and relearn economics content, all of which means better experiences for our students. I want teachers to walk away from these training sessions with tools they can immediately use in their classrooms. The learning should never stop!”

We couldn’t agree more!