Buffalo Grove's Peter Duffer Is Named 3M Outstanding Economic Educator

             Buffalo Grove High School economics teacher Peter Duffer has been named a 3M Outstanding Economic Educator for 2013, an award co-sponsored by 3M and Econ Illinois. The award is annually presented to two educators who are committed to excellence in the classroom. Duffer is being recognized as a teacher with a sustained history of commitment and service to economic education by providing leadership for economics in his school and/or community. His demonstrated professional growth in economic education along with his passion and expertise in increasing student success through technology also are factors in his receiving the award.

     Duffer's vision of employing technology for use in the classroom, which he shared with colleagues and staff to enhance students' educational experience and achievement, led to the largest iPad initiative in Township High School District 214.  Economics is now the single largest Advanced Placement elective class in the Buffalo Grove High School curriculum.  

     "I was pleasantly surprised by this award," Duffer commented. "One of my professional goals has been to expand the economics program and with the help and support of my colleagues to include as many students as possible. Economics is great for students about to begin college. It teaches problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and innovation. I am fortunate that the school board, administration, and my colleagues have supported the iPad pilot for AP Economics. The iPad program has helped increase engagement and communication. Students also are learning how to use iPads and Google Applications for productive purposes."

     Duffer was nominated for the award by Joy Joyce, a visiting lecturer of the economics department at the University of Illinois at Chicago, whom he met while grading AP Economics tests. He also received letters of support from Robert Lindgren, world languages/social science/English language learners division head at BGHS, and Dani Yoesep, a former student.

            In October, Duffer will be honored at the Econ Illinois annual Economic Education Day and 3M Educator Awards Luncheon held at the Union League Club of Chicago. Buffalo Grove High School Principal Carol Burlinski will accept a monetary award, on behalf of the school, for economic professional development, programs, or materials, and a framed certificate.

     Committed to recognizing excellence in teaching, 3M has sponsored this prestigious award for the past 15 years. Econ Illinois and its network of university-based Centers for Economic Education provide Illinois teachers with curriculum consulting, educational competitions and awards programs, professional development, and engaging first-class curriculum materials.  Econ Illinois is a unit of Northern Illinois University's Division of Outreach, Engagement and Information Technologies, and an affiliate of the Center for Economic Education.