20% Time

My name is Derek Lahm, and I am your son or daughter’s American Government teacher. I attended a conference this past spring that really challenged me (as an educator) to incorporate activities in my classroom that allow students to develop creativity and passionate thinking. This led me to incorporating a project called “20% Time” that allows students to create their own project based on their own interests. Each project is worth 100 points, but it is graded based on the process rather than the final product. In addition, I have not given them any ideas for what to do. This is completely on them to be creative and find something they are passionate. The only thing requirements of the project are that it must: 1) achieve a goal AND/OR 2) produce a product. (Trust me, I am not off my rocker. I do think this project might inspire some of your children.)

Part of this project is to “pitch” it as part of an introduction to the project. I have set Wednesday, October 2 as the day in which each student will “pitch” (present) their project. The time of the presentations will be from 1:15-3:00, and it will be hosted in the main gymnasium at Lyons-Decatur. I am inviting all of you to attend this afternoon presentation. Also, please invite grandparents, family, friends, and anyone else you can think of to be part of this day. I really think that by making this “pitch” to people besides their classmates, students will be excited and accountable for achieving a tremendous project.

Derek Lahm

P.S. – Please ask your son or daughter about their project. It may be a great topic of conversation.