November Newsletter
Issue 18
I. CREATE News and Updates
- Northside Middle School Students Shine at We the People Competition
- Muncie Central Students Visit to Indiana Statehouse
- 2024 Civic Learning Symposium Keynote Addresses
- Teacher Spotlight: Braden DeShon – Inspiring Civic Engagement
II. Opportunities for Teachers and Students
- Introducing the Civic Badge Program
III. Upcoming Events
- November Professional Development Session: National History Day in Indiana
IV. Featured Resource
- Geography Educators’ Network of Indiana (GENI)
CREATE News and Updates
Northside Middle School Shines at We the People Competition
This November, students from Northside Middle School proudly represented their school at the We the People competition, held at IU Indianapolis. The 
event, hosted by the Indiana Bar Foundation, gave students the chance to dive deep into constitutional law, debate American civics, and showcase their knowledge on the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
Guided by Nathan Earle, a social studies teacher at Northside, students took on the challenging task of preparing for simulated congressional hearings, where students argued their interpretations of constitutional principles and defended their positions on both historical and contemporary issues. Their hard work and dedication paid off—one of Northside’s teams placed, reflecting their commitment to civic understanding and academic excellence. “We are super proud of our students for their dedication to understanding American civics,” Mr. Earle shared. “Their hard work in mastering constitutional concepts and their success at the competition speaks volumes about their passion and drive.”
The We the People program, developed by the Center for Civic Education, is designed to teach students the principles of American constitutional democracy
while helping them see the relevance of these principles in today’s society. Aligned with Indiana Academic Standards for Social Studies and English Language Arts, the program includes a rigorous performance assessment through simulated congressional hearings, where students debate, analyze, and present their knowledge on constitutional topics.
Participation in We the People has provided Northside’s students with invaluable skills in research, critical thinking, and public speaking. Principal Williams emphasized the impact of this experience: “Through programs like this, our students gain a profound understanding of citizenship and civic responsibility, which is essential to their growth as informed, active members of society.”
Congratulations to Northside Middle School for their impressive performance! We applaud their achievements and looks forward to seeing more MCS students excel in this program in the future.
Central High Students Support Democracy & 2024 Election
In an inspiring show of civic engagement, Julie Snider from Muncie Central High School organized 24 students to serve as poll workers during the 2024 General Election on November 5th. This is 
the largest group of students Ms. Snider has ever recruited for this initiative, reflecting a growing interest among young people to support democratic processes and engage in their community.
“Seeing 24 of our students work the polls this year was incredible,” Ms. Snider shared. “Their dedication to learning about and supporting the voting process makes me proud, and it’s a privilege to witness their commitment firsthand.” By working at polling sites, these students played essential roles in assisting voters, managing the polling environment, and 
ensuring a smooth and fair election day. As temporary election staff, their responsibilities included greeting voters, checking registration, issuing ballots, and maintaining orderly and accessible voting stations.
Poll workers, often referred to as the “hands and feet” of Election Day, are crucial to the functioning of a fair and transparent voting process. They help uphold the democratic process by making voting safe, accurate, and accessible. For the students, this experience allowed them to observe democracy in action, gain insight into the election process, and witness the importance of voting firsthand. As Ms. Snider noted, “Engaging students in this way not only supports our democracy but also builds their understanding and confidence as active citizens.”
The CREATE program celebrates these Muncie Central students and MCS educators for their dedication to democracy and civic responsibility. Their efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have on strengthening community ties and supporting our democratic values.
Muncie Central Students Visit to Indiana Statehouse
Ms. Julie Snider and Adam Cunningham organized a field trip to the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis on Friday, November 8. The trip offered 85 students the opportunity to tour all three 
branches of government and meet with Senator Scott Alexander, where they learned about the legislative process and the role of state governance. Students enjoyed a rare moment to connect with a state leader and reflect on the ways elected officials influence their community. The experience gave students a unique opportunity to witness the state’s legislative process in action and to explore the historic halls of Indiana’s government, including the Indiana General Assembly, the Governor’s office, and the Indiana Supreme Court. Thanks to support from Indiana Senator Scott Alexander, the students had the chance to connect with leaders shaping their state’s future.
The Indiana Statehouse, built in 1888, has been the center of Indiana’s government for more than a century and serves as a living symbol of civic engagement. The students’ visit included a 
tour of this remarkable building, with its grand architecture and rich history, and an insightful discussion on the functions of the government housed within. Reflecting on the visit, Julie Snider noted, “Civics is extremely important to me. I want my students to experience our government firsthand, not just read about it in textbooks.”
This visit is part of Julie and Adam’s larger mission to instill a strong sense of civic responsibility in thier students.
“Seeing the workings of government up close had a profound impact on our students,” Julie shared. “They left the Statehouse with a better understanding of their role as citizens and a deeper appreciation for the democratic process.”
Julie and Adam’s efforts are helping to shape the next generation of engaged citizens. This trip exemplifies a dedication to civic education and belief that firsthand experiences are key to helping students become informed, active members of their communities. Thanks to advocates like Julie and Adam and supportive leaders like Senator Alexander, Indiana’s students are more empowered to take ownership of their role in our society.
2024 Civic Learning Symposium Keynote Addresses
The 2024 Annual Civic Learning Symposium, co-sponsored by the Indiana Bar Foundation and the Center on Representative Government was a success.
The symposium began with an keynote address by Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski III, introduced by Dean Katrina Bulkley of Teachers College. Dr. Hrabowski shared his experiences from the Civil Rights Movement and highlighted the role of education in empowering individuals to engage in civic life. His leadership at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and his efforts to diversify STEM education were celebrated.
In a Q&A session following his keynote address at Ball State University’s 2024 Civic Learning Symposium Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski, III, engaged with students from Ball State’s Family Navigators Program, recipients of the Michelle A. and James T. Ryan Family Scholarship. Dr. Hrabowski’s responses and insights provided inspired students and highlighted the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and academic persistence.
Dr. Hrabowski shared his own journey overcoming obstacles and discussed the values that helped shape his leadership, especially his dedication to fostering inclusive environments in education. Dr. Hrabowski’s mentorship emphasized the role of programs like Family Navigators in empowering students to pursue their goals, serve their communities, and contribute meaningfully to society.
On September 28, 2024, Harry Boyte, a well known and highly regarded civic scholar, delivered an inspiring keynote address at Ball State University’s Civic Learning Symposium. Drawing from his extensive experience in Civic Studies, Boyte called for a revitalized “commonwealth” tradition within our society and in higher education—a vision of colleges and universities as more than educational institutions, but as civic spaces that empower students, faculty, and communities to engage in collective democratic action.
Boyte reflected on the decline in public trust and the broader erosion of civic life. He traced the history of civic engagement movements and emphasized the importance of transforming higher education into spaces that foster collaborative public work, citizenship, and the “commonwealth of knowledge.” Boyte’s address highlighted the potential of initiatives like Third Way Civics and partnerships across political and social divides to renew a sense of shared purpose and agency. His message underscored the role of universities as catalysts for civic renewal, especially in today’s polarized world.
Teacher Spotlight: Braden DeShon – Inspiring Civic Engagement
Braden DeShon, a dedicated teacher at South View Elementary, has a unique story that led him to the teaching profession. After graduating high school in 2015, he initially planned to pursue a career in nursing. However, a 
pivotal experience at summer camp shifted his path entirely. “After camp, I felt strongly that I was meant to work with or teach elementary students,” he recalls. “I immediately contacted my advisor to change my major to Elementary Education.” Fortunately, Braden had already planned to attend Ball State University, which made the transition smooth and marked the beginning of his journey in education.
This past summer, Braden participated in the CREATE 2024 Summer Civic Learning Academy (SCLA), an intensive two-week professional development program focused on civics education. Reflecting on the experience, Braden shared, “SCLA was a good experience. It allowed me to look at civics education through a new lens. I had previously thought civics was just about teaching government systems, but I realized it’s so much more—it’s about preparing 
students to be active, responsible citizens in society.” He also noted that the academy introduced him to valuable resources he had never encountered before, equipping him to bring more dynamic civic learning opportunities to his students.
When asked what advice he would give to teachers looking to enhance civics education in their classrooms, Braden emphasized the importance of integration. “Try to find ways to incorporate civics into what you’re already teaching. It doesn’t need to be a separate subject; you can weave it into daily lessons. For instance, I use the concept of the ‘tragedy of the commons’ to help students understand shared resources and responsibility. It’s a powerful way to show students the importance of caring for community resources, both in the classroom and beyond.”
Braden DeShon exemplifies the qualities of an inspired and inspiring teacher, continually seeking ways to engage students in meaningful learning that prepares them to be thoughtful, active citizens. Through his commitment to civic education and his enthusiasm for teaching, Braden is making a lasting impact on his students and his community.
II.Opportunities for Teachers and Students
CREATE’s Civic Badge Program
Description: This badge will be awarded to dedicated educators who have demonstrated excellence in teaching civic education, inspiring the next generation of responsible and engaged citizens. It represents the commitment of educators to impart civic knowledge, uphold democratic values, and empower students to be responsible citizens. The design combines elements of knowledge, enlightenment, and achievement, which are central to the field of civic education.
Award Criteria:
Submission Process: Please complete the follow form HERE
Deadlines for Submission: December 15th and August 15th.
Method of Submission: Educators should submit documentation of professional development, HERE
Selection Process: A panel will review submissions. Recipients will be chosen based on the thoroughness of their application, the impact of their civic education initiatives, and their demonstrated commitment to fostering civic engagement among students.
Recognition: Award recipients will be recognized at the annual Civic Learning Symposium.
Featured Destination: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, located in downtown Indy, is looking forward to a milestone: their 100-year 
anniversary! In imagining the next 100 years, the museum is reflecting on a new vision, mission, and values to reach and include more children worldwide. However, the Children’s Museum is more than just a destination; one of their most accessible aspects is their series of lesson plans called “Classroom Connections.” These plans include lessons such as “Bees: The Helpful Heroes,” “What’s in a Dinosaur’s Name?” and “Fireworks of Glass- Creations of Color.” These lesson plans involve a wide range of subjects, teaching children the importance of interdisciplinary learning while also allowing them to explore topics they may be personally interested in. For example, “Fireworks of Glass- Creations of Color” allows children to create their own work of art after learning about Dale Chihuly’s glasswork, and they are 
encouraged to use ordinary materials while doing so! This lesson plan involves science and visual arts, while other lesson plans combine science and social studies, English/Language Arts and visual arts, or science and math. These lessons are meant to be as accessible as possible, ranging from 30-50 minutes, and can be developed to apply to one class period. The Children’s Museum has many of these lesson plans on their website for free access by the public.
If you are interested in visiting the museum itself in Indianapolis for a classroom field trip, the Children’s Museum has a how-to guide for field trips. Firstly, they have information about the exhibits online so that educators can plan ahead and create a schedule for their visit. Secondly, the museum has the option to add a program or event to your field trip: you can add a school program/special event guided by their trained educators to enhance your students’ field trip experience. These are included in the cost of field trip admission, and after contacting the museum to schedule a field trip, you are able to request a program while the museum works to create a field trip itinerary that fits your group’s size and schedule. An example of one of their current events is “Secrets of the Artifact,” for grades 3-5, where students form teams of archaeologists and examine a mysterious artifact. The museum also has events for younger and older grades, depending on what subject you are interested in including during your field trip.
In addition to these special events, the Museum is also currently hosting a global traveling expedition called “Mandela: The Official Exhibition,” which gives visitors the unique opportunity to learn more about the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nelson Mandela. This exhibit is designed to educate, entertain, and inspire using many of Mandela’s personal belongings, photos, videos, and artifacts that have not been seen before outside of South Africa. Ultimately, visitors can expect to uncover unique insight into the people, places, and events that formed his character and the challenges he faced. The exhibit takes visitors through different stages of Mandela’s life, and the last section focuses on his passing and legacy after a lifetime of service to others.
Whether you are able to use the museum’s exhibits as a field trip or you find their online resources more accessible, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a wonderful learning experience and a great way to incorporate fun, new activities into your classroom!
III.Upcoming Events
November Professional Development Session – Indiana History
Are you an educator interested in fostering historical thinking and inspiring student engagement with Indiana’s rich history? Don’t miss this upcoming opportunity to deepen your understanding and learn how to bring history to life in your classroom. Please RSVP Here.
Event Details:
- Topic: Indiana History and National History Day in Indiana
- Date: November 20, 2024
- Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
- Presenter: Lexi Gribble, Education Manager at the Indiana Historical Society
- Platform: Zoom (Online Session)
- Incentive for MCS Teachers: $62.50 stipend
The presenter, Lexi Gribble brings a wealth of experience and a passion for helping students connect with history. As the Education Manager at the Indiana Historical Society and State Coordinator of National History Day in Indiana, 
she supports K-12 Indiana teachers by providing engaging, Indiana-focused educational resources. With a background in Social Studies Education and History from Ball State University, Lexi has worked extensively with students in both classroom and community settings. Her expertise helps students across Indiana develop and showcase their historical research skills through the National History Day program, 
where they can create and present projects in a variety of formats, from exhibits to performances.
National History Day in Indiana provides a unique opportunity for students in grades 4-12 to delve into historical topics that align with an annual theme, developing exhibits, documentaries, papers, websites, and performances to share their findings. Lexi’s work connects students with history and encourages them to take ownership of their education. Students who participate can compete at regional and state levels, with top projects advancing to a national competition in Maryland.
This session is open to all teachers, students, and faculty who want to engage with Indiana history and explore ways to enrich their classrooms with historical learning.
Why Attend?
- Learn practical strategies to support historical thinking in your classroom.
- Discover how National History Day in Indiana fosters students’ research and presentation skills.
- Gain insights from Lexi’s experience as both an educator and a program coordinator.
- MCS teachers receive a $62.50 stipend.
Don’t miss this chance to bring Indiana history to life for your students. Reserve your spot now and help inspire the next generation of historians!
IV.Featured Resources
Featured Resource: Geography Educators’ Network of Indiana (GENI)
This month we are pleased to feature the Geography Educators’ Network of Indiana, Inc. (GENI), an organization dedicated to fostering geographic literacy across Indiana. GENI envisions a state where every citizen—students, 
educators, business leaders, and elected officials alike—possesses a deep understanding of geography and its impact on daily life. With GENI’s resources, Indiana aims to develop a population that can approach problem-solving and future planning from a spatial perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of human and environmental systems.
GENI’s mission is to promote the value of geography across Indiana. By equipping educators with high-quality resources and curriculum ideas, GENI supports geographic education that extends far beyond traditional maps. The organization envisions an Indiana where every student, taught by geographically literate educators, gains new geographic knowledge and skills each year, incorporating these lessons across multiple disciplines. This foundation empowers students with the skills needed to connect diverse information, make informed decisions, and actively participate in civic life with a spatial awareness essential for today’s interconnected world.
GENI also aims to inform business leaders and public officials of the geographic factors that influence their decision-making. Concepts like patterns, 
relationships, distribution, and human-environment interaction become essential tools for leadership and planning. GENI aspires to a future where geographic literacy is a valued component of every Indiana citizen’s thinking process, encouraging a community capable of engaging with global systems, local policies, and civic responsibilities in a meaningful way.
GENI offers an impressive range of resources to help educators integrate geography into their classrooms, from engaging lesson plans to interactive geospatial tools. Here are a few highlights:
Lesson Plans and Activities:
GENI emphasizes that geographic literacy is crucial for understanding the complexities of our global systems. By mastering geographic skills, Indiana’s students become equipped to bridge diverse information across fields, from environmental science to urban planning. Geographic literacy empowers students to recognize patterns, make connections, and solve real-world problems in fields as varied as engineering and public policy.
Every Indiana student needs a foundation in geographic literacy to understand the broader systems that impact their work. GENI’s commitment to enhancing this literacy across Indiana ensures that students are prepared for gainful employment and active, informed citizenship.
Educators can explore GENI’s extensive library of lesson plans, activities, and interactive tools by visiting the GENI website. For additional resources, including the Giant Map of Indiana, contact GENI at geni@iupui.edu.
CREATE Information
CREATE can support MCS teachers. If you have questions or to recommend additional Professional Development events, please email CREATE@bsu.edu.
To stay informed of the latest resources and opportunities, sign up for CREATE’s email list.
Visit the CREATE Website.
CREATE is grateful for the support of the U.S. Department of Education.
