When he was a kid learning about social studies, Mr. Kruski didn’t get to show his creativity. He had to memorize facts. Today, as a Social Studies teacher at Mannheim Middle School, he lets his students show their creativity.
Jorge R. What inspired you to be a teacher?
My love of history and government inspired me to be a teacher. My father worked for the federal government. He would talk about history and government at home, which inspired me to learn more. It’s what inspired me to continue to study these subjects and become a teacher.
Emilio: What is the best part of being a Social Studies teacher?
The best part is talking about my favorite subjects, while helping students to learn and grow. We practice a lot of reading, writing, and research in the classroom, and I love seeing the growth students make during the course of the school year.
Jonylah: How do you encourage students to think and create for themselves?
We do many projects, because I want to see students’ creativity. I don’t want them just to answer questions from the textbook, like I did when I was a student. I want to see them creating images, writing in their own words, and showing their learning, not simply repeating a lot of stuff.
Jonylah: What is the most challenging part of being a teacher?
The most challenging part is making sure all students are learning. I need to design lessons to meet everybody’s learning needs. Also, it’s a lot of grading.
Jorge: What is your favorite time period in history?
My favorite time period is the U.S. Civil War. I’m so fascinated by the 1800s, and how the United States broke in half and then reunited shortly after. It’s a fascinating time period, and it’s the time of my favorite president, Abraham Lincoln.
Jorge: What is your life like outside the classroom?
Some of my hobbies are researching family history and genealogy. I like to garden and landscape. I collect coins, and I like to play video games.
Jonylah: What’s one thing your students would be surprised to know about you?
I do presentations about genealogy and family history throughout the Chicagoland region.
Jonylah: As the MMS Drama Club advisor, how do you encourage students who are hesitant to perform? How do you build their confidence and love for drama?
That’s a great question. What I love about Drama Club is it gives students a chance to express themselves in a safe environment that’s fun. We are a supportive group that encourages everyone. I like to think that this is what helps take away the nerves, and encourages everyone to be themselves and have fun.
Jonylah: How do you handle difficult or sensitive topics that may arise?
Thankfully we haven’t had too much of that. But, you’re right, things can get personal in the classroom or Drama Club, or any place like that. I think it’s important to have an open mind, to listen to others’ ideas, and to pay attention. If I see somebody starting to be upset or they’re feeling a little off, then I check in with them to make sure that they feel safe and comfortable.
Jorge: What advice do you give to students going into high school?
The biggest thing is to keep an open mind, and to try different classes and clubs. Talk to new people and really see what is out there in the world. Don’t stay stuck on one pathway. There are so many life opportunities out there, and I want students to explore career and future possibilities there think that is everything.
Emilio: That was our last question. Do you want to add anything?
I urge students to look at the world around them and make it a better place. The future is in your hands, and there are a lot of problems facing humanity. Think about how you can make a difference. Help the environment by shutting off unnecessary lights, recycling appropriately, and not wasting resources. Help out others when you see those in need. Use your power for good.
From Ms. Smith: Each quarter, Introduction to Journalism students choose their interview subjects. Some ask to interview students who excel at sports or play an instrument. Others want to learn more about high school, college, or possible careers. And many are curious about Mannheim Middle School teachers and staff. One MMS teacher is requested so often, he’s earned legendary status in the MMS Newsroom … enter Mr. Kruski. Excerpts from three recent interviews with this top-notch teacher — conducted by students Emilo L. and Jonylah M., and a former student, Jorge R. — are featured above.
