IN THIS ISSUE

I.CREATE News and Updates

Thank You, Dr. K!

Women’s History Month

Northside Titan is Civics Bee Finalist!

Highlights from the IDEA Conference

Muncie Central Students Visit the Statehouse

Indiana Civic Health Report

Indiana’s Civic Seal

Indiana Civics Summit

National History Day Indiana

Teacher Spotlight: Hannah George

II.Opportunities for Teachers and Students

Civic Learning Week

National History Day Judges Needed

Featured Destination: Eiteljorg Museum

Upcoming Professional Development: Philosophy for Children

Professional Development Calendar

Summer Civic Learning Academy 2024

Civics Trivia

III.Save the Date

Civics Day at Muncie Central

Summer Civic Learning Academy

Civic Learning Symposium

IV.Featured Resources

National Council for the Social Studies

Center for Civic Education

I. CREATE News and Updates

Thank You, Dr. K: for Progress and Partnership in Muncie

In our March newsletter, we pause to honor Dr. Lee Ann Kwiatkowski (Dr. K), whose dedication and expertise have transformed Muncie Community Schools (MCS). Her tenure as CEO has been a testament to the power of community-engaged leadership in catalyzing sustainable educational growth and development.

Appointed in July 2019, Dr. K embarked on a mission to rejuvenate MCS, guided by a commitment to leveraging local expertise and foster community-driven strategies.

The legacy Dr. K will leave behind is one of innovation and placing students first. Her experience in public education, spans over 35 years. Her efforts have paved the way for academic and enrollment growth.

Dr. K will pass the torch to Dr. Chuck Reynolds, a respected MCS veteran whose experience within the district indicates a continuation of the transformative work initiated by Dr. K.

On a personal note, as a father residing in Muncie with three children enrolled in MCS over the past decade, I am deeply grateful for Dr. K’s contributions to our community and our schools. Her efforts have enriched our children’s educational experiences and boosted my faith in the promise and potential of MCS and our community.

Dr. K’s leadership has laid a solid foundation for our collective efforts to foster a generation of informed, engaged citizens. Her legacy will resonate within MCS and our wider community over the coming decades.

On behalf of the CREATE team, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. K. We wish her all the best with her future endeavors and look forward to our exciting next chapter under Dr. Reynolds’ leadership.

-David J. Roof.

Celebrating Women’s History Month

CREATE’s Frankenstein Essay Contest

March is Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the contributions and achievements of women throughout history and in contemporary society. It’s a period for reflection, celebration, and education, acknowledging the role of women in shaping our world.

CREATE celebrates the women who fought for suffrage, civil rights activists, as well as the influential policymakers and contemporary leaders making strides in many sectors. We seek to develop interactive learning activities that encourage students to delve deeper into women’s history. These activities include researching local women leaders in Muncie and an essay competition. Such activities are designed to foster critical thinking, research skills, and a deeper appreciation for the contributions of women to our civic life.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, CREATE is thrilled to announce a Mary Shelley Frankenstein essay contest, an initiative that bridges the legacy of women in literature and their enduring influence on society. Mary Shelley’s influenced by her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, whose ideas on equality and education, articulated in her seminal work “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman,” resonated through Shelley’s life and writings.

CREATE is calling on fifth-grade and Middle School students at Muncie Community Schools who are passionate about exploring themes related to the author and her iconic book.

Essay Prompt: Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” delves into themes of creation, responsibility, and society. Write a short story or reflection about individual responsibility towards the creations we bring into the world.

Submission Guidelines:

Essays should be 250-500 words in length.

Typed submissions are preferred, but handwritten essays will also be accepted.

Essays must be original and written by the student submitting them.

Submissions should include the student’s name, grade, and their teacher’s contact information (email or phone number).

Judging: All submissions will be judged by students in the Honors College at Ball State. Winners will be selected based on creativity, clarity, and depth of analysis.

First Prize: The winning student will receive a gift card and teacher and student will be publicly recognized at the 2024 Civic Learning Symposium.

All essays must be submitted by April 20, 2024.

How to Submit: Please email your essay to create@bsu.edu or drop off a physical copy at Teachers College Room 805 (Attn: David J. Roof)

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with literature, explore civic themes, and showcase your writing talents For inquiries or more information, contact David J. Roof at djroof@bsu.edu

Northside Titan Is a Finalist in the National Civics Bee!

Faizan Reshtya, a Northside Middle School student from Muncie Community Schools, has earned a place as a finalist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce National Civics Bee. CREATE promoted student involvement in the Civics Bee. We are extremely proud of Faizan.

The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.Participating 6th, 7th and 8th grade students flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. In partnership with local and state chambers of commerce across the country, the third annual National Civics Bee is taking place in 2024.

The top three winners from each local competition will advance to compete in the Indiana Civics Bee Competition on August 23 at the Statehouse – hosted by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and Indiana Department of Education. The state finalist with the highest cumulative score will be named the first place winner of the state competition and have the opportunity to compete in the National Civics Bee Championship.

Highlights from the IDEA Conference

The ninth annual Neighborhood I.D.E.A. Conference was held on March 2, 2024, at Ball State University, aimed at bolstering Muncie’s vibrant community. The conference attracted over 100 of Muncie’s most active local leaders, eager to exchange knowledge, strategies, and inspiration.

Several neighborhood representatives engaged in discussions about enhancing civic dispositions and promoting voting within families. CREATE’s initiative was met with enthusiasm, as handouts and business cards exchanged hands, promising future collaborations.

Support from Local Government: Mayor Ridenour’s presence and acknowledgment of CREATE’s efforts in supporting Muncie Central High School’s (MCHS) Civics activities and the SCLA program reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to civic education.

Council Involvement: City Council member Nora Powell expressed eagerness to increase her involvement, reflecting a growing interest among city officials in civic and educational initiatives.

Campus Voting Initiative: Dee Hoffman, President of the BSU Staff Council, showed keen interest in the campus voting initiative. Recognizing the importance of encouraging student employees to participate in the democratic process, she reached out for further collaboration.

Engaging Youth: Dominic Bordenaro from the Boys and Girls Club discussed the potential of involving elementary-age children civic projects. Highlighting the need for resources such as transportation and food, this interaction opened doors for expanding civic education to younger audiences.

First Responders and Public Service: Sgt. Amy Kesler of the Muncie Police Department explored opportunities for CREATE to support students considering careers in public service, including first responders, demonstrating the multifaceted impact of civic engagement.

Health and Civic Participation: Dorica Watson, Director of Community Engagement for Open Door, shared insights on promoting voting among low-income residents, stressing the intersection of health and civic participation.

Muncie Central High School Students Visit the Statehouse

On March 5th 2024, 60 students from Muncie Central High School, led by Julie Snider, embarked on a memorable journey to the heart of Indiana’s legislative process at our Statehouse. This annual trip, is a cornerstone of students’ civic education, offering a firsthand look at the workings of state government and is an opportunity for the students to meet and interact with Indiana’s legislative landscape. Representatives Sue Errington and Senator Scott Alexander graciously met with the students, offering insights into the responsibilities and challenges of their roles, as well as discussing current legislative issues and processes.

For many students, this was more than just a field trip; it was an eye-opening exposure to the practical aspects of governance and democracy. Engaging directly with lawmakers, the students voiced their questions and concerns, gaining a deeper understanding of how state government impacts their daily lives and the importance of being informed and engaged citizens.

This trip to the Statehouse not only provided a practical lesson in civics but also left a lasting impression on the students, inspiring them to become more active participants in their democracy. Muncie Central High School continues to provide meaningful civic learning opportunities, ensuring that its students are well-prepared to contribute to society as knowledgeable and engaged citizens.

Indiana Civic Health Index 2023 Report

Civic health is “the way that communities are organized to define and address public problems.” Every two years, the Indiana Civic Health Index (INCHI) analyzes local data and publishes findings to promote robust civic engagement, including an exchange of ideas, an investment in finding solutions to public problems and using civil discourse to address issues.” The INCHI includes data in three primary categories: Voting and Voter Registration, Social and Community Connectedness, and Civic Awareness and Action. In 2024, increasing voter registration and voter turnout remain a major challenge for Hoosiers:

Indiana has placed in the bottom 10 of all states on midterm voter turnout since 2010.

Indiana trails the national voting rate of 52.2% exceeded the voting rate (41.9%) by more than 10%.

Indiana’s ranking for voter registration is consistently in the bottom half of all states.

Increasing Indiana’s civic health will help citizens engage, identify common goals, and “use their shared knowledge to solve problems in all areas of community concern.” Indiana’s demographics show that it is attracting and retaining new residents, becoming increasingly diverse, aging, struggling with low income levels, and lagging in educational attainment. Many non-voters feel that “my vote doesn’t matter.”

The INCHI recommends that institutions and individuals collaborate to “ensure improvements on all measures of civic participation.” These include fostering civic-minded attitudes of belonging, unity, and belief in the value of community.

The area of voter registration that the most significant impact can be made in preparation for the upcoming 2024 election, especially with a concerted focus on registration of Hoosier youth.

CREATE Celebrates Indiana’s Civic Seal Legislation

Indiana’s Civic Seal legislation, Senate Bill 211, passed on March 10, 2024, and focuses on excellence in civic engagement for students and schools. The National Council for the Social Studies promotes civics diploma seals as special recognition of student achievement, “tangible symbols of the value of comprehensive and research-based civic education practices in schools. It is an endorsement that indicates exemplary performance in a specific area of study, and a civics diploma seal can signify a student’s competency in civic knowledge, responsibility, values, and engagement.”

SB 211 establishes that schools and students may earn this designation for excellence in civic engagement.

Several criteria can be considered:

Documented volunteer hours

Documented participation in project-based learning opportunities that demonstrate engagement in the local community or a statewide initiative

Successful completion of course work that emphasizes the student’s understanding of civil society, constitutional government, and the democratic process

Other criteria that demonstrates excellent civic participation

Moving beyond the classroom, NCSS says “Seals send a signal to colleges and employers that a student has excelled in an area of study. Local education agencies can take great pride in a Civic Seal as well as the number of diploma seals that are awarded to students. Civic Seals can serve as an accountability measure for school effectiveness, and a way to encourage parents and the public to support civic education.”

Reflecting on the “We the People” Session

March 13, 2024, CREATE held a session in collaboration with the Indiana Bar Foundation led by Tim Kalgreen, to equip teachers with information on the “We the People” (WTP) competitions.

Aligned with the Indiana Academic Standards for Social Studies and English Language Arts, the WTP program ensures that participants gain not only a theoretical knowledge of constitutional democracy but also practical skills in critical thinking, public speaking, and civic engagement.

For those who couldn’t join us, we encourage you to explore the “We the People” program and consider integrating its rich curriculum into your educational journey. Together, we are forging the path towards a more knowledgeable and engaged democracy.

During the session, Nathan Earle, a teacher at Northside Middle School, shared his insights, emphasizing the program’s capability to deepen students’ understanding of U.S. history through the study of foundational documents and the contributions of key figures in American history. “MCS has AMAZING students doing FANTASTIC work,” Earle remarked, expressing enthusiasm for showcasing MCS student’s capabilities on a larger stage.

Earle expressed a strong belief in the importance of providing a platform for MCS students to showcase their talents and achievements beyond the confines of the classroom. He envisioned opportunities for these students to engage in wider conversations about American history and civic engagement, thereby amplifying their voices and ensuring their work receives the recognition it deserves. Through participation in state and national competitions associated with the “We the People” program, MCS students have the chance to demonstrate their mastery of historical content, their ability to think critically about complex issues, and their skills in articulating well-reasoned arguments.

In conclusion, Nathan Earle’s insights during the professional development session underscored the transformative power of the “We the People” program in enhancing students’ understanding of American history, developing their critical thinking skills, and fostering a sense of civic responsibility.

High School 2023-24 We the People Team Registration
Middle School 2023-24 We the People Team Registration

Learn More About the Indiana Bar Foundation Programs

Indiana Bar Foundation’s upcoming Indiana Civics Summit

The 2024 Indiana Civics Summit brings together individuals and organizations promoting awareness, collaboration, and amplification of civics across the state. Scheduled sessions will include:

Successes and Challenges: A Review of the 2023 Indiana Civic Health Index

Voter Registration and Engagement for Hoosier Youth

Educator Roundtable: What Teachers Need and How to Help

Importance of Civics and Community
Skill Session: Amplifying Your Message

Click Here for Information and Registration
Date: Thursday, April 11, 2024
Time: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm ET
Location: Ivy Tech Conference Center, 2820 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
Cost: $50, includes breakfast and lunch

Judges Needed for National History Day Indiana

Indiana Historical Society (IHS) and the National History Day in Indiana (NHDI) wants you to judge at the state contest, learn more about the program, and see it from the judging perspective. The state contest is on April 20 at Marian University in Indianapolis.

National History Day allows students in grades 4-12 to ask questions about a wide variety of historical topics, research primary, and secondary sources, analyze and interpret information, then present their learning in the form of papers, websites, exhibits, performances, and documentaries. Students present their projects to volunteer judges at regional and state contests.

Judges can have experience in history, education, museums, technology, communication, libraries, theater, public relations, government, law, and more. Judges are required to be at the contests from approximately 8 am-2 pm. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Go to NHDI’s Judge Sign Up webpage to register. If you have questions, email Volunteer Coordinator Claire Anderson at canderson@indianahistory.org.

Teacher Spotlight: Hannah George

This month CREATE highlights the work of West View Elementary’s Hannah George! Hannah is passionate about the importance of civics for student learning and finding their voice. “At the elementary level, civics helps students engage in critical thinking and develop writing skills. It teaches students to communicate and plan to make changes,” she said. “All students will always be a member of their community, no matter what path they take. When we teach civics, we are cultivating empathy.”

“Social studies and civics are my favorite subjects to incorporate into my 5th grade classroom,” Hannah said. During the set social studies block, students kept interactive notebooks for the entire year. “My students have held many debates, ranging from creating a classroom bill of rights, issues around the school, or are there more doors/wheels in the world.” Students read The Day the Crayons Quit to explore its themes of protest and problem solving as well as social norms and obligations. Her class also held mock elections, conducted Oregon Trail simulations, and wrote American Revolution “break up letters” to England. To explore harder topics, she held Courageous Conversations in which students sat in a circle to share opinions. There was “no judgment, no blame–it’s a safe space,” Hannah said. She also is excited to bring in speakers and include new civics-related experiences in each unit of the new reading curriculum in the upcoming school year.

Hannah is an enthusiastic leader in expanding students’ experiences outside the classroom. “During the COVID years we did many virtual field trips to the Indiana Statehouse, White House, and Smithsonian,” she said, “CREATE is sponsoring a student council field trip on March 21 to the Indiana Statehouse and Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site in Indianapolis.”

Hannah collaborates with her colleagues as a student council co-sponsor. She also plans lessons and experiences that tie in to civics and social studies with her 5th grade team, utilizing PD and resources from CREATE. In September 2023, Hannah, Beth Gillentine, and Bre’Anna Serf Collaborated to guide their students through oral history interviews with people who recalled their experiences during the September 11 attacks. The students created a billboard to share the transcripts and photos of the event. CREATE featured the event in its September 2023 newsletter.

This summer will be very busy for Hannah. She is excited about attending CREATE’s Summer Civic Learning Academy in June. “I was lucky enough to attend the SCLA last summer,” she said. “While it was geared for secondary, I was able to get a LOT of ideas to help my students prepare for those secondary courses/classes. I am looking forward to the next one, as it is geared for elementary teachers and students!” She also will begin classes for her Masters in Educational Administration and Supervision.

CREATE would love to hear your ideas on field trips that support civics-related learning in your classroom and may be able to offer support. Contact CREATE to discuss your plans!

II. Opportunities for Teachers and Students

Civic Learning Week

Civic Learning Week aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and civic participation, offering students and faculty alike the opportunity to delve into the workings of government, the principles of democracy, and the critical role individuals play in shaping society. Through a series of workshops, guest lectures, and interactive sessions, participants explore the contemporary relevance of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the democratic process. Civic Learning Week serves as a reminder of the vital role education plays in sustaining democracy.

Featured Destination: Eiteljorg Museum

The Eiteljorg Museum inspires an appreciation of the art, history, diverse cultures, landscapes, and animals of Native America and the West. Its collections contain works by iconic artists such as Thomas Moran, Charles Russell, Frederic Remington, and Albert Bierstadt as well as contemporary works showing modern interpretations of life, history, and beliefs among people of many cultures. Representations of historical figures include A Man Called York, a contemporary bronze sculpture of the enslaved man who was part of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery, and Black Cowboy – Bill Pickett, a painting of the well-known actor and member of the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. Student tours can be arranged for groups of 10 or more with admission of $5 per person. For groups of 15 or more admission is free for one tour escort and one driver. Tours typically last 45-60 minutes and can be designed for all grade levels. Students also may be able to interact in a studio experience with a visiting artist in residence. The Eiteljorg’s Storyteller magazine provides in-depth stories about exhibits, events and programs, artist profiles, and new acquisitions.

CREATE’s Upcoming Professional Development Session

Improve Critical Thinking, Discussion, and Logical Reasoning Skills with Philosophy for Children

How can teachers prepare students to be thoughtful citizens living in a complicated world? Join Debi Talukdar of the Philosophy Learning and Teaching Organization (PLATO) for this inquiry into creating an open environment for examining difficult topics thoughtfully and imaginatively. “Opportunities to discuss and reflect about larger philosophical issues provides an essential foundation for the ability to engage in society in active and responsible ways,” says Debi. “Far from telling students what to think, philosophical inquiry encourages students to develop independent thinking skills, learn together with their peers, and develop their own conclusions.” In “communities of inquiry,” students and teachers inquire together. Students generate their own questions about issues relevant to their lives and learn to give good reasons for their beliefs. Every student’s voice is valued and all views are taken seriously.

Students who engage with philosophy “perform better on tests that measure problem-solving skills, and once in college, receive some of the highest scores on tests including the GMAT, LSAT, and GRE, and demonstrate an increased likelihood to participate in civic engagement projects” says Dr. Sarah Vitale, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Ball State. “At the same time as students develop intellectual humility, they gain positive self-esteem, which is a mature confidence in one’s ability. Many studies have connected studying philosophy to socio-emotional growth, independent thinking, and positive self-esteem in children and adolescents.”

See Debi’s TED Talk: Philosophy is for Everyone

Teachers who participate in the session and complete a short survey will receive a $62.50 stipend.

When: Wednesday, April 10, 4:15-5:15 pm
Platform: Zoom

REGISTER HERE

Professional Development Calendar

CREATE can provide funding for MCS teachers who attend professional development (PD) opportunities related to civics and history content and pedagogy. To qualify for PD funds, we ask that teachers complete a brief registration form prior to the event and a brief survey following the event.

CREATE’s Professional Development Calendar

Civics Trivia

Which U.S. town was the first to have an all-woman government, in 1888? Its council included Mayor Mary D. Lowman, and Councilmembers Carrie Johnson, Sadie E. Balsley, Hanna P. Morse, Emma K. Hamilton, and Mittie Josephine Golden.

Kuna, WY B. Absarokee, MT C. Oskaloosa, KS D. Uravan, CO

(Answer: C)

Oskaloosa, Kansas became the first town in the United States known to have an all-woman government, with the mayor and entire council being female. The council included Mayor Mary D. Lowman, and Councilmembers Carrie Johnson, Sadie E. Balsley, Hanna P. Morse, Emma K. Hamilton, and Mittie Josephine Golden. One year prior, in 1887, voters in Syracuse, Kansas elected women to all five seats of the city council, but a man served as mayor.

III. Save the Date

Civics Day 2024:
A Day of Learning, Service, and Engagement

On April 19, 2024, Muncie Central will come together to celebrate the 2024 Civics Day, an annual event dedicated to fostering civic engagement and understanding among our youth. This special day is designed to provide MCS students with a unique blend of hands-on learning experiences through internships, job shadowing, volunteering, and a variety of civics-related activities.

Morning Activities: Engaging with the Community

The day will kick off with students stepping out of the traditional classroom setting to immerse themselves in the local community. They will engage in internships, job shadowing, and volunteering opportunities with a host of local businesses, non-profits, and organizations. This real-world experience is invaluable, providing insights into the workings of our local economy and the impact of civic-minded businesses and organizations.

During the first session, from 8:05 to 9:35 AM, students will have the opportunity to listen to inspiring speakers in the auditorium, participate in activities in the gym, and contribute to the beautification of our neighborhood. Activities will include planting flowers, picking up trash along the greenway, and planting trees, possibly collaborating with partners like Minnetrista.

The second session, from 9:45 to 11:30 AM, will follow a similar structure, offering students another chance to engage in meaningful activities that enhance our community’s environment and foster a sense of civic responsibility.

Lunch Break: A Time to Reflect and Connect

After a morning of active participation, students will enjoy a lunch break from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. This interlude will provide a moment for reflection on the morning’s activities and an opportunity to connect with peers over shared experiences.

Afternoon Sessions: Deepening Civic Understanding

Post-lunch, the focus shifts back to the classroom, where teachers will lead diverse civics-related activities tailored to their subjects or departments. Utilizing a Google Form, students can sign up for activities that interest them the most, ensuring an afternoon filled with engaging and educational experiences.

Session 3, from 12:30 to 1:45 PM, and Session 4, from 1:45 to 3:05 PM, will include a variety of activities similar to those of previous years. These may range from creating art projects and writing letters to elected officials to engaging with guest speakers like Sue Errington, Scott Alexander, or local judges. Additionally, students may find themselves planting trees, maintaining property, or participating in a River Walk, all of which are designed to deepen their understanding of civic duty and community care.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Civics Day 2024 promises to be a day full of learning, service, and engagement. It’s an opportunity for our students to step beyond the confines of the classroom and into the heart of our community, where they can see firsthand the impact of their contributions and the importance of civic participation. We invite everyone to join us in this enriching experience, as we work together to foster a generation of informed, engaged, and responsible citizens.

Summer Civic Learning Academy 2024

This year’s Summer Civic Learning Academy (SCLA) is scheduled for Monday-Friday, June 17-18 and June 20-21 and Monday-Thursday at the Ball State University Student Center. SCLA will focus on teaching strategies and resources for MCS elementary school educators. It will feature presentations by nationally recognized innovators and sessions led by local and community presenters. Wednesday, June 19, and Friday, June 28, are reserved as independent working days and will not have in-person sessions. MCS teachers who complete the program and a brief survey will receive a $3,000 stipend. Space is limited, and priority will be given to elementary teachers.

CREATE’s 2023 SCLA welcomed 31 secondary teachers from MCS. MCS social studies teacher Julie Snider presented Preserving Democracy through Civics, and economics teacher Drew Shermeta presented Make as You Go. Special sessions highlighted local history with a bus tour; a panel featuring Indiana State Representative Sue Errington, County Commissioner Sherry Riggin, and Mayor Dan Ridenour; and two afternoons of interaction with students from Ivy Tech’s Upward Bound program to identify community problems and develop action plans, led by BSU’s John West Other session topics included Middle School Mandate, Civics Across Content Areas, We the People Curriculum, Linking Content with Dispositions, Mapmaking for the Classroom, Controversial Topics, Restorative Justice, Youth Voice to Action, Liberty and Justice for All, TRUST ME: The Media Explained and Explored, Civics and Career Readiness, Teacher Leadership, Civics Solutions for the 21st Century, Community of Philosophical Inquiry, and Working with Afghan Students and Their Families.

REGISTER HERE

2024 Civic Learning Symposium

Join us at the 2024 Civic Learning Symposium, hosted by the Center for Economic and Civic Learning at Ball State on September 27th and 28th at the L.A. Pittenger Student Center. This year’s theme focuses on “Education, Dialogue, & Deliberation in Our Democracy,” highlighting the significance of fostering open dialogue and thoughtful deliberation in today’s polarized society. Our distinguished speaker, Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski, III, brings a wealth of experience in education and civic engagement.

The symposium will delve into topics such as dialogue across differences, deliberative decision-making, educating for democracy, strengthening democratic practices, and empowering civic leaders. It’s a platform for scholars, educators, students, and community members to exchange ideas on enhancing civic engagement and democratic practices through various formats like workshops, strategy sessions, and interactive discussions.

Mark your calendars for this engaging event. Ball State and Muncie Community School affiliates attend for free, while others can register for a cost covering meals and all sessions. Early registration discounts and a call for session proposals are available until July 25th. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to and learn from conversations shaping our democratic society.

2022 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture at Harvard Honoring Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski

IV. Featured Resources

National Council for the Social Studies

The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) has issued a Position Statement emphasizing the need for supporting curricular promotion and intersectional valuing of women in both historical and contemporary contexts. Key resources from various NCSS publications have been curated to provide educators and students with valuable insights and educational tools.

Highlights from the Curated Selection:

“Looking Back, Looking Forward” by Margaret Smith Crocco discusses the limitations of past perspectives on women’s suffrage, marking the centennial anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment.
Christine Woyshner’s article, “Agitation by Symbol,” explores the use of iconography in teaching the history of women’s suffrage, highlighting the strategic use of images and symbols by suffragists.
“Too Strong for a Woman” by Donald R. McClure delves into Title IX and its impact on gender equity in U.S. schools, presenting an inquiry-based learning opportunity.
Jennifer Sdunzik and Chrystal S. Johnson’s piece, “Working the Democracy: The Long Fight for the Ballot from Ida to Stacey,” offers a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggle for voting rights in the U.S. Barbara Winslow’s article on Shirley Chisholm examines the legacy of suffrage and citizenship engagement, connecting issues of race, class, and gender.

These articles, along with others focusing on environmental sustainability, educational opportunities, civic engagement, and more, provide a comprehensive look at the multifaceted contributions and challenges of women throughout history.

Center for Civic Education

The Center for Civic Education offers lesson plans and a series of 60-Second Civics podcasts dedicated to Women’s History Month. These resources explore key topics and the lives of influential women, aiming to foster a more representative democracy.

For educators looking to incorporate women’s history into their curricula, these resources offer a wealth of information and inspiration. Whether through detailed lesson plans, engaging articles, or informative podcasts, there’s a multitude of ways to celebrate Women’s History Month and promote a deeper understanding of women’s pivotal roles in shaping our world.

Celebrate and Educate: As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us commit to educating ourselves and future generations about the remarkable achievements and ongoing struggles of women. By incorporating these resources into our teaching and learning, we can support the curricular promotion and intersectional valuing of women in history and current events, moving towards a more equitable and inclusive society.

Stay Informed and Engaged: For more information and to access these resources, educators and students are encouraged to explore the offerings from the National Council for the Social Studies and the Center for Civic Education. Let’s take this opportunity to honor women’s contributions, learn from their experiences, and inspire positive change in our communities and beyond.

CREATE Information

CREATE can support MCS teachers. If you have questions or to recommend additional PD events, please email CREATE@bsu.edu.

Join the CREATE Email List

To stay informed of the latest resources and opportunities, sign up for CREATE’s email list.

CREATE Wants to Hear Your Questions and Ideas

Feel free to contact CREATE@bsu.edu with any questions or comments you have about participating.

CREATE is grateful for the support of the U.S. Department of Education.