Becoming Thoughtful Global Citizens with 6th-Grade Teacher Dana Tatlock
June 6, 2025
In Global Studies class with Middle School Teacher Dana Tatlock P’20, P’24, 6th-graders learn about the world and engage in conversations about current events through a variety of approaches. “One of my key goals as a teacher is helping students feel connected to the wider world—engaging with people doing interesting work, building geographic knowledge, and becoming thoughtful global citizens,” says Ms. Tatlock. “I want them to be able to hear about events in places like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, or sub-Saharan Africa and have some foundational knowledge and context.”
Using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework, students explore global population trends, demographics, and regions in conflict—what Ms. Tatlock calls “Hot Spots.” They also examine everyday life around the world, looking at progress, innovation, and efforts to build a better future. “I want the students to understand that not everything is about wars and climate change. It’s also about raising their awareness about the progress being made around the world.”
One of the ways 6th-graders get to apply what they learn in Global Studies class is through the World Peace Game. In this annual immersive simulation, students assume the roles of global leaders addressing complex international crises such as pollution, war, and economic inequality. “Through the World Peace Game, students practice collaboration, communication, and teamwork while tackling real-world challenges,” Ms. Tatlock says. “They become young leaders in action.
“Wheeler also has an amazing community of parents and guardians who have personal connections with the countries we study in class,” notes Ms. Tatlock with appreciation. “Inviting them as guest speakers helps bring the topics alive.”
Recently, Wheeler parent Monica Simal P’26, P’31, a native of Cuba, visited Ms. Tatlock’s class to share insights about the country’s past and present. She provided both historical context and personal stories, and spoke about how immigrants remain deeply connected to their homeland and how the struggle for freedom and human rights is a universal aspiration.
In a different guest session, another Wheeler parent, Daily Content Specialist Olivia Rodrigues P’31, spoke about growing up in the Ivory Coast and shared her family’s story of immigrating from Cape Verde to the Ivory Coast and then to the United States. She also introduced students to Ivorian culture, including her favorite dish, Attiéké.
You can visit our Instagram feed to see more photos of our 6th-grade world leaders in action, including moments from the World Peace Game and visits from the guest speakers!
Dana Tatlock was a recent guest speaker on The This Week at Wheeler Podcast; you can listen to our conversation here, which begins at the 4:58 mark.
