CINCINNATI — Occupy protests have swept the nation, including Cincinnati. One seventh-grade social studies teacher has capitalized on the Occupy Cincinnati protest, turning it into a class field-trip and assignment.
Teacher John Stevens, a 2010 University of Cincinnati graduate, took his seventh-grade social studies class of five students to Piatt Park, where the Occupy Cincinnati protesters have been camped out for more than a week.
“They’re down here to be an eye-witness to the protest that’s happening and learn first-hand,” said Stevens.
He used the protest to help his social studies class draw a connection between past and present.
“This is a perfect opportunity for them,” said Stevens. “Normally they have to read about it in a book.”
Stevens explained that his students can learn a great deal from people who are actually protesting for change.
Sandra Schilling, Head of School, and the student’s parents were in support of Steven’s proactive approach to education.
“The teacher (Stevens) approached me. I was very positive and so were the parents,” said Schilling. “It was an opportunity that may not happen again for these young students.”
The students had the opportunity to interview protesters with questions they had prepared ahead of time.
The inquisitive group asked logical questions: Why are you here? How long do you plan to stay? How do you get supplies and support yourself? When will it come to an end? What do you plan to do when winter comes?
They are expected to write an essay on the Occupy movement. Stevens instructed his students to take a more journalistic approach.
“I want them to gather the facts, make observations and write a clear story,” said Stevens.
A protester interviewed by the students gave the class one final note: people should come first, not profit.
The Schilling School for Gifted Children is one of only two schools, nationally, that serve gifted students from kindergarten through the 12th grade.