Randall Nissen, Mona al-Hayani, Paulette Dewey and Emily Francis

The "American Experiences: Our Stories" program is a unique look at the American experience. It is a collaborative brainchild of Nissen, al-Hayani, Dewey and Francis. In defining the American experience, students at Toledo Early College High School will learn how their own family history contributes to the identity of our nation. They will begin their research by writing a family anecdote, performing a genealogy search, and conducting oral history interviews. Students will learn how their families had a hand in the national and global events of our time, such as the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War. While the project covers many state curriculum standards in language arts and social studies, the 175 participating students will gain new skills in desktop publishing, digital media, and interviewing and archival techniques.