Jim Blount History Educator Awards go to Kara Horras and Burke Miller

April 14, 2005

Two Hamilton City School teachers are recipients of the inaugural Jim Blount History Educator Awards. Kara Horras of Monroe Elementary School and Burke Miller of Hamilton High School will receive their awards during a special dinner celebration Wednesday, May 11, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Harry T. Wilks Conference Center. The Award is named after Hamilton historian and former Journal News editor Jim Blount. "No one has done more to promote the teaching of history generally, and the education of people about the history of Hamilton specifically, than Jim Blount. He has been and remains a wonderful asset and resource for all the people of the city," said Dr. Michael L. Carrafiello, Director of The Michael J. Colligan History Project. The Colligan Project of Miami University Hamilton, in association with the Hamilton Community Foundation, has established the Award in Mr. Blount's honor.
Selected from a pool of applicants from the Butler County area, Horras and Miller exemplify the commitment to and achievement in history education epitomized in Jim Blount’s life and career. According to Carrafiello, “Mrs. Horras and Mr. Miller are recognized in their respective schools and throughout the district as unusually dedicated and successful teachers of history." Horras, who teaches fifth grade at Monroe Elementary, encourages her students to create plays, which in turn become exciting events for them. One nominator wrote, “The history lessons Kara prepares not only excite the students but give them opportunities to grow in self-confidence as well. Her hands-on approach to teaching history has proved to be very effective as the students truly retain the information taught.” Miller, who has a doctorate in history, truly enjoys teaching at the high school level. “You get to see the students progress. You work with them every day and see them develop over the years.” His AP classes in particular have an impressive record of success. The evening's event includes dinner and the awards presentation. Cost is $25 per person. To make a reservation, contact The Michael J. Colligan History Project at 785-3277. The Michael J. Colligan History Project is a joint undertaking of Miami University Hamilton and the Hamilton Community Foundation.