Lapeer Virtual Partnership teacher Lisa Wagner presented at the Pathways to Cross-Cultural Understanding (PCCU) conference in Indianapolis back on October 11.
Her presentation was entitled "K-pop Demon Hunters Goes Viral: Teaching Korean Identity Through Global Film and Fantasy." Wagner's goal was to offer teachers ideas for using this popular film in the classroom through music theory, figurative language, geography, social-emotional learning, and media literacy.
"I was honored to receive the 'Best Presenter' award," Wagner said. "This was my third time attending the PCCU conference. I'd highly recommend this conference to anyone with interest in cross-cultural studies. Though it does focus specifically on Korea, the impact is more wide-ranging. Next year's theme will be 'Nature.' Usually, the conference alternates in-person events with online events every other year."
Also in Indianapolis, Wagner and Joseph Daniels took first place for the 2025 "Best Lesson Plan" awards at the PCCU conference for “Cross-Cultural Comparison Between South Korea and the U.S.: Understanding and Teaching Culture Through Music."
According to the judges, each submission reflected creativity, quality, and a strong commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding. The selected lesson plans stood out for their innovative integration of cultural resources and inspiring approaches to teaching. The winning lesson plans will soon be available on the PCCU website, www.pcrosscultural.com.