3DE™ Educator Spotlight: Madie Hilbert

Author: Cathy Essick
Work Readiness
Published: Thursday, 16 Jan 2025

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Image caption: Madie Hilbert, English teacher at the 9th Grade Center, embraces the 3DE™ model to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, inspiring students to grow and succeed.

Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa is proud to spotlight outstanding educators who contribute to the success of 3DE™. This feature highlights Madie Hilbert, an English teacher at the 9^th Grade Center in the College Community School District.

What is 3DE™?

3DE™ is an innovative instructional model designed to make education more engaging and relevant by connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. Developed in partnership with Junior Achievement, 3DE™ integrates interdisciplinary teaching with case-based challenges that reflect real business scenarios. This approach helps students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills while understanding how their academic knowledge applies to future careers. By fostering these connections, 3DE™ prepares students to excel both in school and beyond.

Introducing Madie Hilbert

Madie Hilbert is in her second year of teaching English at the 9^th Grade Center. Her passion for education began early, inspired by three exceptional middle school English teachers who introduced her to books and stories that broadened her horizons. Their influence motivated her to pursue a career in teaching, where she could instill the same love of reading and learning in her students.

Embracing 3DE™: A Unique Opportunity

Encouraged by her principal to join 3DE™, Hilbert quickly recognized the unique value it offered. She was drawn to the instructional model’s innovative approach, which integrates business challenges with interdisciplinary learning. 3DE™ provides students with opportunities to tackle real-world problems while highlighting the connections between their core classes, such as English, and their broader academic and career goals.

Transforming Teaching Through 3DE™

Hilbert has found that participating in 3DE™ has reshaped her approach to teaching. By incorporating 3DE™ competencies and analytical tools into her English curriculum, she has been able to create more engaging and relevant lessons. Students respond enthusiastically when they see how their work in English connects to their case studies and future aspirations. Integrating vocabulary and skills from the business challenges into her lessons has made learning more meaningful for her students.

Highlights of the First Semester

One of Hilbert’s favorite aspects has been the case events. These events showcase the results of her students’ hard work in their business classes, culminating in impressive presentations. While Hilbert’s role focuses on supporting foundational skills such as vocabulary and analysis, seeing the students’ final presentations has been a rewarding experience.

Student Growth and Engagement

Since the introduction of 3DE™ in the fall of 2024, Hilbert has observed noticeable growth in her students. They are more engaged, confident, and eager to tackle challenging activities. The model has provided them with valuable opportunities to develop their writing and public speaking skills, which are essential for their future success. Witnessing their progress has been one of the most rewarding parts of her teaching journey.

Advice for New 3DE™ Educators

Hilbert emphasizes the importance of collaboration for educators new to this model. Working closely with the 3DE™ coordinator and other teachers has been a vital part of her success. By sharing ideas and planning together, the team has been able to effectively integrate case studies into their classrooms and structure case events. Hilbert highlights the value of open communication and teamwork in making this a success.

Looking Ahead

Hilbert is excited about the potential of 3DE™ to shape the future of education at her school. By connecting academic learning to real-world challenges, the model equips students with skills and confidence that prepare them for life beyond the classroom. She is proud to be part of 3DE™ as it is making a meaningful difference in students’ lives.

Madie Hilbert’s dedication and passion for education exemplify the transformative impact of 3DE™. Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa celebrates educators like Hilbert, whose efforts prepare students for brighter futures. Stay tuned for more Educator Spotlights as we continue to showcase the remarkable work happening in our schools.