In January, HEART Chicago began its very first Humane Education Apprenticeship Program (HEAP). Four extraordinary individuals were selected for the program and are in the process of learning HEART’s 10-lesson curriculum on human rights, animal protection, and environmental ethics.
Each week, participants in HEAP volunteer their time to observe and co-teach our lessons at a Chicago school. Last Thursday, HEAP volunteer, Vianney Leon, led a math activity that taught students how rapidly dogs and cats can reproduce and the importance of always spaying and neutering their companion animals. Two weeks ago, HEAP volunteer, Becki Markle, worked with groups of students to brainstorm ways they can reduce litter in their community.
Not only are participants in HEAP gaining experience working with young people, but they are also finding the program to be a meaningful way to positively influence the next generation. As HEAP volunteer, Becki Markle, wrote, “I feel extremely lucky to be a part of this amazing program with HEART. Knowing that both myself and the others have the potential to inspire students to be change agents for a more humane and compassionate world and future is an extremely rewarding and exciting feeling.”
If you’re interested in learning more about HEAP or other opportunities to learn how to teach humane education, please contact us at email@teachhumane.org.
I love this!!! I teach kindergarten and often incorporate citizenship-type lessons (which I consider this to be) into my curriculum. Bravo to you all. Keep up the good work!