James Lerch
James “Jim” Lerch has two degrees and is working on a third degree. His undergraduate degree is a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northern Arizona University. He also has a Juris Doctor from University of Oregon College of Law. He is currently working on a Master of Arts in Economic Education and Entrepreneurship from the University of Delaware, which should be awarded in May 2019.
Jim presently teaches Advanced Placement Microeconomics and Macroeconomics at University High School. He makes learning easier for his students by making them feel welcome, using a wide variety of active learning strategies, and giving students multiple chances to succeed, focusing on what is possible instead of what mistakes may have been made. He helps students with tutoring before school, during lunch and after school. He posts virtually his entire course content online and uses a course management system that allows students to communicate with him even when not in class.
Jim sponsors three important service clubs at UHS. Unity Club permits Rincon HS refugee students to get homework help from UHS students. Rotary Interact encourages students to put “service above self” and volunteer time and energy to projects such as Ben’s Bells, feeding the homeless, encouraging school staff, and helping with other school club efforts. Jim is also supportive of students interested in pursuing an extracurricular passion. For example, he provided equipment and guidance to students in an effort to start a podcast and he is also helping Reia Li get students involved with Iskashitaa, a club that harvests fruit and vegetables to benefit Tucson’s refugee population.
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