Suzanne McGough

2026 Yale & Slavery Teachers Institute Cohort Member

My work in education has always been guided by a deep belief that learning becomes more meaningful when students see culture, community, and real human stories reflected in what they study. I have been a Social Studies teacher for more than twenty years and developed a passion for helping students connect history and culture to the world around them.
I recently became the Native American Academic and Cultural Coordinator for Lake Shore CSD in Western New York. In this role, I collaborate closely with local Indigenous community members and fellow educators to bring Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and perspectives into classrooms across the district. As a member of the 2026 YSTI, I hope to deepen my academic and cultural understanding in ways that strengthen these partnerships and support the creation of authentic, respectful, and community-centered learning experiences for all of our students.