Welcome!
I’m glad you’ve found this space. It’s dedicated to effective lesson materials for geography, world studies, and earth and environmental sciences.
I started Forward-Thinking Curriculum after having taught at the middle and high school levels in NY and Georgia. I was also proud to be a contributing member of a professional teacher group on curriculum development. I feel that more relevant, real-world content would improve the average curriculum and help to create more knowledgeable citizens. I love creating well-designed curriculum that helps students want to learn more about the world.
I know from my own teaching experiences how hard it is to find high-quality lesson resources like these. After long weeks teaching/grading/dealing with administrative paperwork, I spent my entire weekends creating resources to use in my classroom because I couldn't find what I was looking for. I work to make lesson materials that teachers can use with confidence and ease to increase relevance in their classrooms.
Why Geography/Global Studies and Earth/Environmental Science?
I believe that science and social studies belong at the center of education in a free society. Self-determination requires the kinds of complex thinking skills that these subjects uniquely provide: reasoning, problem solving, deliberation, reflection. Every student needs training in these vital skills in order to live a successful life and to be an asset to society. Practical and relevant social studies and science content helps students understand the world around them now.
My Educational Background
I have a Masters degree in Social Studies Education and a Bachelors degree in Anthropology with a minor in Environmental Science, all from the State University of NY. I earned teaching certification (grades 7-12) in NY and Georgia. My hands-down favorite class in grad school was Curriculum Development!
Thanks for stopping by!