At Carson Silver campus, history teacher Daniel Echebarria captivates students by bringing historical events to life through immersive enactments. Recently, he portrayed a French aristocrat, enhancing discussions about the French Revolution during a unit focused on France’s 18th century political and economic crises. Echebarria aims to counteract student apathy, which he describes as a “deadly disease” affecting engagement in the classroom.
In December, Echebarria introduced the harsh realities of the French Revolution. Students drew cards to determine their social status, with some assigned as royals enjoying lavish foods, while others faced the stark reality of a meager bread-and-cheese diet. This hands-on approach illustrated the inequality of the time, emphasizing that the circumstances of one’s birth are beyond their control. “You don’t get to choose who you’re born to,” he explained, linking the activity to broader themes of social justice.
Innovative Teaching Methods
Employing a Chautauqua method, Echebarria delivers lessons in character and costume, stimulating deeper consideration of historical social upheaval. Alongside his history classes, he facilitates discussions on justice and extremism, examining the impacts of France’s significant historical events. Echebarria regularly dresses as notable figures, including Richard III and William Shakespeare, to engage students further.
Echebarria’s classroom is a testament to his dedication. A shelf displays mannequin heads adorned with period wigs and helmets, reflecting his meticulous preparation. He sources authentic costumes, including a World War I soldier’s uniform complete with a whistle and a World War II uniform that originally belonged to a veteran, which he discovered on eBay. “It’s an honest-to-goodness U.S. pinks-and-greens uniform,” he said, emphasizing its historical significance.
The purchase of the World War II uniform revealed an unexpected treasure—a note in Japanese and English, detailing directions to a dentist. This personal artifact, which had remained hidden for decades, adds a layer of narrative to the historical context Echebarria presents to his students.
A Commitment to Student Engagement
Costume accessories are not merely decorative; they enhance the educational experience. Echebarria describes himself as a “costume head,” investing in quality materials to evoke genuine reactions from his students. His enthusiasm for costumes extends beyond the classroom, as he and his wife share a passion for Halloween and themed decorations.
Recognized as the Educator of the Year by the Carson City School District in 2021, Echebarria’s impact on student inspiration and local community engagement is well acknowledged. In the upcoming spring term, he plans to tackle the Cold War, utilizing bedsheets to simulate the Berlin Wall and organize interactive activities that encourage student participation and critical thinking.
Echebarria recognizes the challenges his students face as they approach adulthood. “It starts getting scary for a lot of them,” he noted, as they inquire about job prospects and living costs. He provides realistic insights while encouraging a balanced perspective, affirming, “It’s tough out there, and I’m not going to blow smoke… but I also don’t want you to be terrified of it either.”
Through innovative teaching methods and a commitment to historical authenticity, Daniel Echebarria fosters a dynamic learning environment at Carson Silver campus, ensuring that history is not just a subject, but a captivating story that resonates with his students.
