Megan Kirts, MAEEE class of 2021, is currently developing an 80-lesson high school economics curriculum and was honored with the 2024 Rising Star Award by the National Association of Economic Educators. She also co-published a teaching note with current MAEEE student Kathleen Cusack in the Journal of Economics Teaching. She currently serves as director of educator programs for Econiful. She shared some of her recent accomplishments and the value of connections in her MAEEE experience.
What exciting news or accomplishments have you been a part of?
My colleagues and I are creating an 80-lesson on-level high school economics curriculum. I also co-published a teaching note in the Journal of Economics Teaching with MAEEE student Kathleen Cusack, discussing one of the lessons in our curriculum. Additionally, I was honored with the 2024 Rising Star Award by the National Association of Economic Educators.
Why is this news valuable to your colleagues or educators considering the MAEEE program?
The work I’m doing now is a great example of the types of opportunities MAEEE graduates can pursue.
What did you learn through your MAEEE experience that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?
I learned how to design lesson plans that are easy for anyone to pick up and successfully implement, even if they’re new to teaching.
Describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program.
Through the MAEEE program, I’ve connected with a talented network of economic educators across the country. Many of my classmates have gone on to present for Econiful or the Thomas R. Brown Foundation, which funds Econiful.
What other opportunities have the MAEEE degree provided you?
My MAEEE degree has allowed me to teach economics as an adjunct at my local community college, further expanding my teaching experience.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to current MAEEE students or prospective applicants?
Live in the dorms! It’s a great way to build strong and lasting relationships with your classmates and find study partners who will support you.