Nancy Hamer–Strahl

Port Perry High School, Port Perry (Ontario)

Nancy Hamer-Strahl places an emphasis on student achievement through the Multiple Intelligences teaching philosophy, which allows studentsto showcase and develop specific talents.

In her history unit, students examined Canada's role in the Second World War through various projects. They studied the paramilitary camp known as “Camp X” in Whitby, Ontario. They interviewed veterans of the camp and visited the site. The class put together a museum, labelling and archiving items and antiques, and then shared their museum with parents, politicians, and community members. Students also created time capsules for Juno Beach and the Battle of Hong Kong.

Through primary source research, interviewing veterans, and connecting with students in Canada, Hong Kong, and Japan, students assembled artifacts and pieces of personal reflection. The latter project was published as the book, Passing the Torch: Our Youth Remembers Hong Kong.

Students also learned about the battle of Vimy Ridge and completed a memorial plaque project commemorating local veterans.