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STEM/Leadership
Page 20 Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com
Celebrating John Short, a Teacher Who Transforms Science Education
Science Teacher, Waubun-Ogema- demonstrating the mechanics of the digestive while maintaining high educational standards Mr. Short’s legacy is one of inspiration,
White Earth Public Schools system by drinking water upside down so stu- is a testament to his dedication. dedication, and boundless enthusiasm. As his
North Central Zone MREA 2024 dents can hear its journey through the body or The school’s forest, once an underutilized former students move on to various fields,
Educator of Excellence leading explorations in the school forest, Mr. asset, has become an extension of Mr. Short’s many with a newfound passion for science,
Short transforms science into an immersive classroom thanks to his vision. By collaborat- his influence remains a guiding light. We
adventure. These hands-on activities aren’t ing with the community, he helped establish celebrate Mr. Short not just a teacher, but a
just about understanding concepts; they’re trails and turned the forest into a vibrant mentor and an innovator whose love for learn-
about sparking a lifelong curiosity and build- learning environment. Students now venture ing has left an indelible mark on his school
ing confidence in students. into the woods to dig for bugs, analyze soil and beyond.
One of Mr. Short’s greatest strengths layers, and discover various organisms. It’s a For Mr. Short, teaching is more than a
is his unwavering commitment to his stu- scene Mr. Short treasures, often stepping back job—it’s a calling. And for his students, he’s
dents. As one student reflects, “He made me to observe with joy as students learn through more than a teacher—he’s a reason to dream
want to learn and he made this learning fun. exploration and teamwork. big.
And I knew that I wanted to help people.” One student summed up the essence of Congratulations Mr. Short on being
This impact extends far beyond the class- Mr. Short’s teaching: “He lets us make it our named a 2024 MREA Educator of Excel-
room, inspiring students to pursue fields they own. He gives us the backbone and makes us lence in the North Central Zone. Mr. Short
might never have considered. For instance, more confident. It’s something you want to was honored and celebrated in November at
the student who shared their plans to study participate in.” These words highlight the way the MREA Greater Education Summit at Cra-
nursing credits Mr. Short’s enthusiasm and Mr. Short pushes his students not only to learn gun’s Resort in Brainerd.
support as the catalyst for their ambition. but to thrive, building a classroom culture Recommended watch! See a video about Mr.
In the realm of education, where passion Colleagues and students alike speak of where every student feels seen, heard, and Short at https://www.mreavoice.org/john-short
meets practice, few individuals embody the Mr. Short’s genuine care. Waubun-Ogema- motivated to achieve.
true spirit of teaching like Mr. Short. With 27 White Earth School Superintendent Jordan At the heart of Mr. Short’s approach is Article and photo courtesy of the Minnesota
years of dedicated service, beginning in 1996, Spaeth noted, “Students don’t care how much the belief that education is more than a cur- Rural Education Association — https://www.
Mr. Short has become a cornerstone of the you know until they know how much you riculum—it’s an opportunity. He often shares mreavoice.org
academic and personal growth of countless care. And I think for Mr. Short, that becomes that he wants each student to feel prepared
students. His teaching philosophy is simple obvious to kids in a quick hurry. He is himself for whatever path they choose. “They get one
yet profound: learning should be an experi- at all times.” This authenticity fuels a unique shot at this, and it’s my job to make that shot
ence, not just an obligation. classroom atmosphere where students feel as good as it can be,” he says. It’s this sense www.waubun.k12.mn.us
Mr. Short’s style is experiential, bring- empowered to explore, ask questions, and of purpose that has shaped hundreds of young
ing science to life in a way that engages take ownership of their learning. Mr. Short’s minds and set many on paths they might never
students beyond the textbook. Whether it’s ability to make science accessible and fun have dreamed possible.
Embracing Innovation: Lessons from Germany’s Apprenticeship Learning Model
Continued from Page 1
und Lehrwekstatt, and visited Hinterkopf, students for meaningful careers. As NBAPS continues to explore
a German vocational school. The German Apprenticeship model is innovative ways to bridge education and
NBAPS Superintendent Sara Paul grounded in system collaboration, some- workforce development, the insights
traveled to Germany last Fall as a Fulbright thing that left a lasting impression on gained from Germany’s apprenticeship
Fellow and emphasized the importance of Treichel. Germany’s partnerships and model provide valuable direction for
shared learning, stating, “David’s trip to collaborations between federal and state shaping the future of student learning.
Germany affirms the importance for us to resources, higher education, K–12 edu- Treichel’s experience highlights the power
think creatively about how partnerships cation, and private industry that produce of long-term investment in skill-building
can transform education and workforce mutually beneficial curriculum, learning and the importance of strong partnerships
preparation. By building bridges between spaces on-site at private companies, and between education, industry, and govern-
education and industry, we can create funding to support the model. “Collabo- ment. While implementing a similar model
opportunities for our students and teachers ration opens doors,” said Treichel. “The in Minnesota will require significant col-
that are relevant, meaningful, and sustain- system alignment is producing great out- laboration and a shift in mindset, NBAPS
able.” comes and is designed to be a long-term is already leading the way with its Reg-
NBAPS has expanded career-con- solution.” istered Teacher Apprenticeship program,
nected learning through Viking Bridge, With a strong foundation of innova- demonstrating a commitment to hands-
a program designed to build connections tive programs already in place for students, on learning and career preparation. By
between local employers and high school NBAPS is also one of the first Minnesota embracing these global best practices and
students. Viking Bridge offers a continuum districts to implement a Registered Teacher tailoring them to meet local needs, the dis-
Treichel spent a week talking with of work exposure, from career explora- Apprenticeship program, leading the way trict is positioning students for success in
educators, business leaders, and stu- tion to hands-on internships, creating a in hands-on workforce development. The an evolving workforce.
dents about the German apprenticeship win-win for both students and businesses. district’s teacher apprenticeship program
model and hopes to share key insights as By aligning education with workforce pairs experienced teachers with support
apprenticeship continues to grow in popu- needs, this initiative ensures students gain staff who aspire to become educators, www.isd138.org
larity. Over the course of the week Treichel valuable experience while helping employ- providing structured, real-world train-
visited several companies, including ers develop a pipeline of skilled future ing that addresses the teacher shortage.
SCHOTT, Witzenmann, Endress + Hauser, employees. Together, these programs posi- This forward-thinking approach was fea-
Kleeman, and Wittenstein. He also met tion NBAPS as a leader in bridging the gap tured on KARE 11 as a creative solution
with third party training provider Industrie between education and industry, reinforc- to workforce challenges and was recently
ing the district’s commitment to preparing spotlighted in the Star Tribune.