Students in grades 9-12 become expert researchers in lead teacher James Aquavia's world literature and global research classes at Montclair High School in Montclair. These nationally recognized classes provide an interdisciplinary curriculum while teaching students the art of critical thinking and conducting research. Aquavia's ninth-grade students also receive weekly coaching on their writing from trained community volunteers through a workshop called "The Writer's Room." Another program he developed teaches students about the United Nations by having them participate in small-group simulations of the U.N. General Assembly. Aquavia's instructional strategies have contributed to significantly improved test scores. He has presented at national conferences and received a Geraldine R. Dodge Grant from Montclair State University to test his theories on research practice and improvement of world literature pedagogy. Aquavia applied a portion of his Milken Educator Award to establish a college scholarship fund for graduating Montclair High seniors, to be applied toward their tuition at a two-year college.
1991 Brookdale Community College, Other
