Foundation for Teaching Economics
Dharma Merkle is an experienced education professional currently serving as an Americorps Member and College Preparation Coach at College Bound St. Louis since August 2022. In this role, Dharma provides holistic support to a caseload of 20-25 students navigating the college process, while also representing the organization at partner events and contributing to social media efforts. Previously, Dharma held the position of Lead Program Coordinator for the Foundation for Teaching Economics, guiding peers and enhancing program logistics, after initially serving as a Program Coordinator focused on leadership and economics for high school students. Earlier experiences include roles as a Connection Leader at Webster University, facilitating First-Year Orientation, and as a Receptionist and Operations Assistant at the Community Music School of Webster University. Dharma holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Webster University and completed coursework at Webster Leiden Campus.
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Foundation for Teaching Economics
Established in 1975, the Foundation for Teaching Economics’ mission is to introduce young individuals to an economic way of thinking about national and international issues, and to promote excellence in economic education by helping teachers of economics become more effective educators. The FTE focuses its efforts on the secondary education level and provides programs and teaching resources which target primarily, but not exclusively, the social studies curriculum. FTE is known nationally for its emphasis on active learning and the engaging activities and lessons used to teach economics. All lessons and programs are correlated with both the Common Core state standards and all 50 standards in economic education. A unique feature of FTE student programs is the integration of economics content with leadership development. Participants learn to use economic reasoning skills as part of their decision-making process. A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, FTE works in partnership with education organizations and schools across the nation.