Page 10 May 2 014 Social studies teacher provides inspiration to the students at St. Thomas By Kathleen Shipman At St. Thomas the Apostle, middle school teacher Zach Zipser makes History come to life. With a belief in project based learning, Zipser has created a way for his students to push themselves to work above and beyond their limits. It is because of the enthusiasm he brings to the classroom that the students develop a genuine interest in the subject and ultimately a motivation to exceed their goals. For the Eifler family, nominating Zipser for the Arcadia News Teachers We Love Award was only fitting. “Mr. Zipser inspires his students to do their very best and give it their all,” said mother Lisa Eifler. “He also makes learning fun for his students and it shows.” Every day, the 6th, 7th, and 8th graders at St. Thomas look forward to attending Zipser’s class. By taking the time to get to know the students individually, they are made to feel welcomed, confident, and free to learn in his classroom. Zipser keeps them entertained with his positive attitude and ability to make Social Studies enjoyable. His excitement for the subject is another reason why the students are so enthralled in his lessons. “I love everything about History, it’s my passion. It’s our story of mankind and there’s not a more fascinating story,” said Zipser. There is one activity in this Social Studies class that the students absolutely love. After each unit, they are required to do a “Knock Yourself Out” project, which is a factually based project demonstrating their knowledge on a topic. They are given the freedom of choice (with a few guidelines) to explore any relating area of the unit and present to the class their interpretations in any way they would like. Some past examples have included a replica of a Mayan temple, mosaics, quilts, and music performed live. Zipser has been floored by his student’s intelligence and creative abilities. “I like them to really dig deep in the information and critically think and analyze historical events,” said Zipser. “The work I get is absolutely phenomenal.” Zipser is considered to be an incredible asset to the community of St. Thomas. His dedication to bringing life to learning has made a strong impact on the students, both inside and outside of the classroom. Lisa Eifler is very appreciative to have had Zipser as her sons’ teacher. In fact, she sees him as a positive role model for all of the students at St. Thomas. It is for these reasons that Mr. Zipser is a very deserving recipient of the Arcadia News Teachers We Love Award. Teachers chosen for the Arcadia News Teachers We Love award receive a $125 gift certificate to Salon Sandoval, dinner for two at The Henry and an invitation to an end of the year luncheon for the year’s winners. Teacher of the Month www.friendlypines.com 1-888-281-CAMP ✭ Prescott, AZ ✭ Boys and Girls ✭ Ages 6-13 ✭ Trained Staff ✭ Screened Staff ✭ 30+ Activities ✭ ✭ Enrolling Now! 74th Season 2014 Dates 2-Wk: June 15-28 • June 29-July 12 • July 13-26 1-Wk: June 15-21 • June 22-28 • June 29-July 5 • July 6-12 • July 13-19 • July 20-26 Religious Instruction • Strong Academics • Foreign Language • Cutting Edge Technology Leadership Programs • PE and Interscholastic Sports • Instrumental and Vocal Music “Arts Attack” Program • School Nurse • Bus Transportation Available Visit our website for information on our summer Preschool progr am. 3901 East Indian School Road • 602-957-7010 • www.clsphx.org CHRIST LUTHERAN SCHOOL Christian Values. Quality Education. Preschool through Grade 8 Applications are being accepted for the 2014-2015 school year. Austin (left) and Seth Eifler (right) stand proud with Mr. Zipser who inspires them to learn history with more than just textbooks. Follow us on

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