I was often disappointed by the professional development opportunities I found early in my career as a high school social studies teacher. But, then I discovered Ashland University and the Ashbrook Center’s intensive summer courses for teachers. I quickly enrolled in the Master of American History & Government (MAHG) degree program. Its director, Peter Schramm, the supportive staff, and the exceptional professors reminded me that high school teachers and students should see themselves as Constitutional scholars too. From 2005 to 2008, I read and analyzed primary sources, took challenging exams and wrote substantive papers. I truly believe I am still teaching as a result of the rigorous academic challenges, professional camaraderie and curricular direction the MAHG program provided. I recently returned to Ashland to complete the Gifted Intervention Specialist Endorsement program, through which I am learning to better serve the varied needs of our school’s often misunderstood gifted and talented students. Ashland has once again challenged me to be the best teacher possible.
