Shaunna Pastuszak, an 8th-grade teacher at Sand Creek Middle School, was chosen as one of only 60 educators nationwide to participate in the White House Teacher Institute this summer. This exclusive, weeklong workshop provided a unique opportunity for Pastuszak to deepen her understanding of American history and government while engaging with fellow educators from across the country.

During the workshop, Pastuszak took part in a curator-led tour of the White House, gaining an immersive experience in the rich history of one of the nation's most iconic landmarks. The program also offered her the chance to explore the lives and contributions of influential Civil Rights leaders such as Mary McLeod Bethune and Frederick Douglass, whose legacies continue to shape our society today.

When reflecting on her favorite aspect of the workshop, Pastuszak highlighted her interactions with current and former White House staffers. "The insights I gained into the workings of the executive branch, the impact of historical decisions on today’s world, and even the quirky details about Presidential family life were invaluable," she shared.

As she prepares for the upcoming school year, Pastuszak is eager to bring her experiences into the classroom. She plans to give her students the opportunity to explore the untold stories of White House history using primary source documents provided by the White House Historical Association. By integrating these new perspectives into her curriculum, Pastuszak hopes to inspire her students to appreciate the complexities of history and the often overlooked figures who have shaped the nation's past.

Her participation in the White House Teacher Institute will undoubtedly enrich her students’ learning experience and provide them with a deeper understanding of history and civic engagement.