Elijah Evans

Alternative Choices in Education Program social studies teacher Elijah Evans ’07 said he always knew he would eventually return to the high school as a teacher. He now looks to teach students history in a way that affects their lives.

Tell me more about your experience as a social studies student here at the high school.

It was tough, but what I remember most from history here is that it didn’t really teach me about me or who I am or where I come from or why that is important. It felt like there was a bias in a lot of ways, and I’m glad that the high school has realized that and has started to adapt to different cultures and perspectives. I think even though it wasn’t the ideal experience, it has definitely informed the kind of role that I want to play as a teacher, making sure that students see people of color as leaders and contribute to our history.

Can you tell me more about why you chose to teach ACE instead of a mainstream history class?

I think ACE is really unique. It is a great alternative program. I really believe that what we’re doing in ACE is something that should be offered to more people. I think in ACE we realize that education shouldn’t be a one­-size-­fits-­all approach and that we often fall into that because that’s what traditional education dictates. The ACE approach is to look at students as individuals and provide for them and the needs that they require to access the content that will help them get to where we want them to be. We want students to have a much more enriching experience with education. I think it is motivating within itself. If you feel confident as you’re learning and you feel like your intelligence is being tapped, then you are going to be more excited to take on more challenging tasks. If you’re faced with constant challenges, an educational approach that doesn’t meet your needs or allow you to access the content, then you’re going to find learning a lot more difficult, and you’re going to be more apprehensive.

What is your main goal for your students?

I think it’s really important for my students to really understand the world that we live in. I think if my students can see themselves as change makers and people who can have an influence on the history around them, their communities, their families and their own lives, then I will feel successful as a teacher. I am not as focused on them grasping the content or remembering things chronologically. It does have value, but I think it is very much about making curriculum really well connected to the world.