This week’s Academic Spotlight shines on LHS science teacher Jeff Dametz and his Anatomy and Physiology classes. Mr. Dametz focuses on giving students hands-on learning experiences that help them see how science applies outside the classroom. Students regularly take part in labs, medical case studies, model-based learning, and activities that require them to diagnose conditions using real evidence and findings.
“I want them to take my class and see there is more out there than just being a nurse or doctor; there are other great careers they might love in the medical field,” said Mr. Dametz.
Recently, Mr. Dametz invited Dr. Nicole Yedlinsky, a local Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician, to visit the class and demonstrate ultrasound techniques. See Dr. Yedlinsky's impressive bio below. Experiences like this help students understand that careers in healthcare go well beyond nursing or becoming a doctor, and that there are many in-demand fields students may not be aware of. Seeing professionals use real tools and explain how they apply their work helps learning stick in a way textbooks alone cannot.
“Sharing medical knowledge with students is one of my favorite things, especially when it helps them imagine themselves in future careers in healthcare,” said Dr. Yedlinsky.
Dr. Yedlinsky brought medical equipment with her on the visit and showed the students how to use it appropriately, with many of them acting as the patients. Seeing professionals use real tools and explain how they apply their work helps students retain more knowledge than they’d get from a textbook or video.
When talking to students, many shared how the class has influenced them and what they enjoy about it:
“This class got me into the medical field. Now I’m going to pre-med at Baker University. Mr. Dametz and this class really influenced that decision,” said senior Adam Leftwich.
“I like the way Mr. Dametz teaches because it’s hands-on.” said sophomore Carmen McLilly.
“I like how there are many real-world applications for what we learn in this class,” said senior Kaitlyn Porcelli.
Providing students with hands-on experiences and real-world examples helps them better understand content, stay engaged, and see possible career paths. Mr. Dametz really gets that and works hard to provide these opportunities for his students daily. Lansing High School and its students are lucky to have him.
Thank you, Mr. Dametz, for the great work, and thank you Dr. Yedlinsky for making time in your busy schedule to support our future medical professionals.
Dr. Nicole T. Yedlinsky, MD, CAQSM, FAAFP, FACSM, RMSK is a board-certified family and sports medicine physician and core faculty member at the University of Kansas Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program, where she also serves as program director for the Sports Medicine Fellowship. She is the team physician for Lansing High School and previously served as Chief Medical Officer for the KC Current professional soccer team.
