World Culture and Geography teacher, Justice Baskin, is bringing history to life, one dramatic reenactment at a time. Born and raised in New Jersey Baskin discovered his true passion for history after a couple of failed career attempts. His original dream was to become a backup dancer for Beyonce.
He was a dancer all throughout high school and at Wells college in New York. Baskin then realized that this lifestyle would not be sustainable for the long run due to him having to use his body everyday, it would be extremely tiring for him.
“I was a dancer until I started thinking to myself, that it would not make enough money unless you secure a good tour or career, so I wanted to have a little more secure income,” said Baskin. “I don’t want my body to be the product; my brain is my tool.”
After learning that his greatest tool was his mind he decided to use his knowledge to do good for his community. He began his teaching career with one goal in mind, to empower the next generation through knowledge of history.
“I became a teacher because I realized that my community needed help in the historical area; my space is relatable because I understand my students,” said Baskin. “I used to be like them in a different time period; so I’m here to be the person I didn’t have growing up.”
In his classroom Baskin creates an environment that is more than just history. He creates an environment where students can feel seen, heard and most of all safe. All around his classroom Baskin has encouraging quotes and he always reminds his students that this is a safe space to talk if they need help.
“I became a teacher because I realized that my community needed help in the historical area,” said Baskin. “For my students and for me, I am my students in different time periods; So, I’m here to be the person I didn’t have growing up.”
Baskin believes that it is important for the community to be in touch with their roots. This provides a sense of belonging and can make people feel welcomed. It also gives students someone they can look up to and relate to.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community Baskin understands how important representation can be. While his identity is not the reason he became an educator, it does help create a safe place for students by building a welcoming space for them every day.
“Being part of the LGBTQ+ community makes my room a safe place,” said Baskin. “If you see the signage in the room, no degrading remarks about someone’s race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. Expect the differences.”
Inside his classroom students can expect more than boring lessons and text book reads. Lessons are driven by critical thinking skills and students are asked to look beyond dates and see the “why” and “how” in past historical events.
While Baskin is not dancing behind Beyonce, he has found a new stage in which he can be a star. History at UACHS will never be the same as he reminds us of the past to the tune of his own beat.
