Social Studies Department

Why we’re unique:
Students taking classes in JCA’s Social Studies department have a unique opportunity to expand their worldview and learn from outstanding faculty who have more than 144 years of teaching experience combined.

Business

  • Learn how to be debt free at 33
  • Buy your first home, pay taxes, buy a car, and “live” while preparing a yearly budget

Government and International Relations

  • Endless political thought and debate
  • Closely follow national news as it unfolds on FOX, CNN, and MSNBC
  • Attend and actually understand local township board meetings

U.S. History

  • Learn by the “backwards planning/pro-active” method
  • Master the 20 Core Social Studies Skills
  • Practice the “13 Habits of the Mind”

World History

  • Design and create a medieval manor system
  • Search for the effects of ancient Greek influence in the community
  • Imagine, develop, and try to maintain a country as one of the world’s powers in a simulation activity

MEET OUR FACULTY

Michael Pero, Department Chair, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Western Michigan University and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Governors State University. Mr. Pero is the recipient of the 2008 Joliet Area Great Teacher Award.

Mark Clarke holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a Master of Arts in Social Studies Educations, and a Master of Arts in Educational Administration Type 73 from the University of Illinois. Mr. Clarke also holds a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Administration.

Tom Cranmer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science Education from Illinois State University.

Joe Gura holds a Bachelor of Arts in U.S. History, World History and Sociology from Lewis University and a Master of Arts in Cultural Studies from Governors State University. Mr. Gura is the recipient of the Joliet Area Chamber of Commerce Great Teacher Award, was named the St. Rita High School Teacher of the Year,  Lockport High School Teacher of the Year, District 9 Coach of the Year, and District 11 Coach of the Year Pontiac High School, and was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Mark Hansen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies from Illinois State University and a Master of Arts in Political Studies from Governors State University.

Jason Midlock holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of St. Francis. Mr. Midlock is the recipient of the 2012 Joliet Area Great Teacher Award.

Natalie Minarich holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Arts in Secondary Education: Social Studies from DePaul University.

 

 


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