Educator Profile: Michelle Schram
4 Year BA International Development Studies, Aspiring New Farmer, Youth Educator
Areas of Interest: Sustainable small-scale farming methods, community development, food justice, international issues
Location: Cartwright, Manitoba – willing to travel
Contact: michelle.schram@gmail.com
Some of the specific topics I could speak about include: My experiences moving from a rural-urban environment; moving back to a rural community; my international experiences in Ghana, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia; local and/or global food systems; starting up a small farm; youth action and community development. I would also love to engage in gardening, cooking and music as educational mediums.
Potential fit with curriculum:
- Gr. 3 Science: Growth & Changes in Plants
- Gr. 7 Science: Interactions with Ecosystems
- Gr. 7 Social Studies: People & Places in the World
- Gr. 10 Science: Dynamics of Ecosystems
- Gr. 11 Agriculture
- Gr. 12 World Issues
Biography
I grew up on a farm in the town of Cartwright, in South‐western Manitoba. Through my studies in International Development Studies, I connected my rural roots with interests in rural and community development and issues of food justice around the world. My practicum led me to Ghana, West Africa, where I facilitated a food security‐based program with students, helping them grow food in sustainable ways for their communities. I also spent many summers educating children in the “outdoor classroom” through YM‐YWCA Camp Stephens, Ontario. More recently, I facilitated hands‐on, educational workshops and conferences for children and youth on important global issues with the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation.
I have now moved back to my rural hometown of Cartwright with the aspirations of starting a small farm where I can grow healthy, nutritious food for myself and others. I have facilitated the “Homegrown Leaders” summer leadership program for youth aged 15‐18, and the “New Moon Kids Camp” for children aged 8‐11, both Harvest Moon Society educational programming. I see young people as the catalysts in making positive changes in our communities, and I look forward to the opportunity of educating both rural and urban students in fun and creative, interactive ways.
