Teaching Students About John King
John King is a pivotal figure in the American education system, serving as the U.S. Secretary of Education under President Barack Obama from 2016 to 2017. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, King’s inspiring journey through a challenging childhood into educational leadership reflects his unwavering commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for all students. By incorporating lessons about John King into classroom curriculum, educators can help students understand the importance of education and inspire them to become future leaders.
Early Life and Background
John King’s story began with great adversity. Both of his parents were educators, but they tragically passed away before he finished middle school. Despite these challenges, John’s resilience and determination to succeed led him to graduate from high school early and attend Harvard University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in government.
King’s belief in the transformative power of education became central to his life and career. He went on to receive a Master’s degree in teaching of social studies from Columbia University Teachers College, as well as a law degree from Yale Law School and a doctorate in educational administrative practice at Columbia University.
Professional Journey
Teachers can emphasize the many roles John King assumed throughout his career to demonstrate how commitment and hard work lead to various opportunities. King started as a high school social studies teacher in Puerto Rico before becoming founding principal at Roxbury Preparatory Charter School in Boston. He then moved into government work, becoming Deputy Commissioner at the New York State Education Department, Senior Deputy Commissioner for P-12 Education in New York State, before ultimately being appointed U.S. Secretary of Education.
Key accomplishments as Secretary of Education
In order for students to appreciate how influential figures like John King are able to create change, it is essential to highlight their key accomplishments. As U.S. Secretary of Education, King focused on increasing college accessibility for marginalized communities, supporting the development of a well-rounded curriculum, and improving professional opportunities for teachers.
Teaching Strategies
1. Discussion-based Learning: Teachers can engage students in meaningful discussions surrounding King’s life and accomplishments. These conversations can cover his early life obstacles, key educational policies, and the importance of providing equal education opportunities for all.
2. Research Projects: Encourage students to research John King’s career in more depth, either individually or in groups. This activity allows students to learn about topics such as various education policies he has enacted and the significance of these initiatives on a local, state, and national level.
3. Documentary Viewing: Educators can incorporate documentaries or interviews featuring John King into their lesson plans so that students may hear firsthand accounts of his work as an educator and policymaker.
4. Role Models and Mentorship: Teachers can use John King’s story to inspire students to become active role models and mentors within their own school communities.
Conclusion
Teaching students about inspiring figures like John King helps motivate them to strive for their best while understanding the value of education. By incorporating lessons on John King’s life and legacy into classroom curriculum, educators encourage students to think critically about educational policy, social justice issues and how they can be changemakers in their own right.