Learning from the past can be beneficial for adults and children. Especially when the events of the past are taught in a way that challenges and entertains the students.
Since 1997, Stephanie Dukus has incorporated those expectations in her teaching methods, and the results have become evident to her peers in the profession.
The Pine Street Elementary School fourth–grade teacher will be honored this week for her innovative teaching approach by the Michigan Historical Center Foundation.
On Thursday, Oct. 26, Dukus will be presented with the 2006 Odyssey Award, a plaque given annually to educators who excel in the field of translating history to students and the community.
Along with the Award, Dukus will receive $500 in cash to be applied to student learning.
Pine Tree Principal Diane Dunakiss said Dukus exemplifies excellence in the classroom, while demonstrating creativity and leadership through her teaching methods.
‘Stephanie immerses her fourth-graders in Michigan history, and she expands their education outside the classroom,? said Dunakiss. ‘She is the quintessential teacher who makes Michigan history a life experience for her students.?
As an educator who believes children learn best in hands-on situations, Dukus created and piloted a weeklong program at the Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills. Through the program, students gained insights into the history of the state’s automobile industry.
Her students also appeared in a video produced by Ford Motor Company about the Ford Rouge Plant and its role in shaping automotive history.
Besides taking her students on field trips, Dukus requires them to learn about the state’s historic and cultural sites through researching and planning a weeklong Michigan vacation intinerary with an imaginary family.
In the process, the students learn about topics such as the fur-trading industry and Native American history during special presentations by visiting speakers.
They also gain knowledge of the state’s rich maritime history by building electrical models of Michigan lighthouses.
Dukus claims she hasn’t always been a history buff, but now realizes the value of learning about the past and how it affects the present.
‘I didn’t learn to love history until I began teaching it,? said Dukus, a 10-year veteran of the school district. ‘History is more than just dates and facts. It’s about people.
‘I try to create connections for the kids with children from other periods,? she said. ‘I do it with a lot of storytelling and hands-on learning. The kids already have a lot of knowledge about Michigan, so they are very eager to participate in discussions.?
Dukus said being a recipient of the Odyssey Award is an honor she will cherish.
‘It’s a marvelous honor,? she said. ‘The cards and congratulations I’ve received have been very nice. I even got some from former students and that makes me feel very good.?
Special honors are nothing new for Dukus. She was Pine Tree Elementary’s Teacher of the Year for 2001-02.
She is a resident of Lapeer and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan-Flint and earned her master’s degree from Marygrove College.
The Michigan Historical Center is part of the state’s Department of History, Arts and Libraries.
‘The Odyssey Award is a fitting name for this tribute to teachers like Stephanie Dukus, who take their students on an exciting educational journey through Michigan’s past,? said Historical Center Board Chairperson Deborah Muchmore.
Parents and former students are invited to attend a special ceremony honoring Dukus at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26 at the school.
Those wishing to attend should RSVP to Heidi Humphreys at 248-693-5470 or hhumphreys@lakeorion.k12.mi.us.