January Newsletter
Issue 20
I. CREATE News and Updates
- Southside Middle School Attends Governor’s Inauguration
- “Appeals on Wheels” Brings a Courtroom to Muncie Central
- See Highlights – 2024 Civic Learning Symposium
- Teacher Spotlight: Jeffry Veatch
II. Opportunities for Teachers and Students
- Paid Professional Development: Developing Religious Literacy
- Introducing the Civic Badge Program
- Save the Date: 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy
IV. Featured Resource
- Institute for Curriculum Services
- Encourage Students to Apply for the Indiana Senate Page Program
CREATE News and Updates
Southside Middle School Attends Governor’s Inauguration
On January 13, 2025, a group of 20 students from Southside Middle School had the unforgettable experience of attending the inauguration of Indiana’s 52nd governor, Republican Mike Braun. The students, along with social studies teacher, Jeffry Veatch and principal Michael Raters witnessed history as 
Governor Braun took the oath of office at the Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis, using both his family Bible and the inaugural Bible of Hoosier President Benjamin Harrison.
The event, attended by prominent leaders such as outgoing Governor Eric Holcomb, former Governor Evan Bayh, and U.S. Senators Todd Young and Jim Banks, highlighted Indiana’s rich history and its path forward. Governor Braun’s speech, titled “The Crossroads of Freedom and Opportunity,” reflected on Indiana’s settler roots and charted an optimistic vision for the state’s future. He emphasized the entrepreneurial spirit of Hoosiers and called for bold action in education, healthcare, and governance.
Following the inauguration, the students enjoyed lunch at Buca di Beppo, thanks to support from the CREATE project, before heading to the Indiana State House. There, they met with Senator Scott Alexander and Representative Sue Errington, giving them a chance to see democracy in action and engage in meaningful dialog. Mr. Jeff Veatch, Southside’s 8th-grade social studies teacher, praised the day as “a powerful opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.” He emphasized the importance of showing students the practical side of civic engagement.
Dr. Roof noted, “This field trip embodies the mission of CREATE—to foster civic learning and provide students with opportunities to witness and engage with our democratic processes.”
Southside’s principal, Michael P. Raters, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort between Southside and CREATE to make this experience possible. He highlighted how events like this inspire students to see themselves as future leaders and active participants in their communities.
This field trip is a testament to the power of experiential learning and the vital role of partnerships in enhancing civic education for all students.
As Governor Braun said in his inaugural address, “At this crossroads, we face clear choices. Let us be the risk-takers and trailblazers that Hoosiers deserve in leadership.” Thanks to the CREATE project and Southside Middle School, these students are well on their way to embracing these challenges and shaping Indiana’s future.
“Appeals on Wheels” Brings a Courtroom to Muncie Central
On December 2, the Indiana Court of Appeals brought its Appeals on Wheels program to Muncie, hosting a special session of oral arguments for approximately 200 students from Muncie Central, Burris Laboratory School, Wapahani, and Delta High Schools. The event, designed to promote civic education and 
engagement, gave students a front-row seat to the judicial process.
The case, presented by the Court of Appeals, was argued before Judge Bradford, Judge Weissmann, and Judge Kenworthy. Following the oral arguments, students had the opportunity to engage directly with the judges during a Q&A session, asking thoughtful questions about the judiciary and legal careers.
Afterward, the learning continued over lunch, where students dined with the justices, attorneys, and local leaders, including Mayor Dan Ridenour, Senator Alexander, and Delaware County Judge Doug Mawhorr. This informal
setting allowed students to gain deeper insights into the workings of the legal system and explore potential career pathways.
The Appeals on Wheels program has a long history of connecting communities with the appellate process, demystifying what happens at higher court levels. Judge Kenworthy, emphasized the importance of bringing the judiciary to the people: “We are not the ivory tower that they might have an impression of. We’re there, having real arguments and doing our job in front of them.”
By traveling to schools, colleges, and community venues, the program reaches Hoosiers who might not otherwise have the opportunity to witness the judicial system in action. For students, these experiences are transformative, offering a unique perspective on government and the rule of law.
Events like these serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of civic education in fostering informed and engaged citizens. For Muncie students, the experience not only illuminated the judiciary’s role in governance but also encouraged them to think critically about their own responsibilities as future leaders in their communities.
The CREATE project celebrates this initiative for advancing civic learning.
See Highlights – 2024 Civic Learning Symposium
The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State University proudly hosted the Annual Civic Learning Symposium in 2024, an event that united educators, faculty, and community who explored innovative strategies for advancing civic education and engagement.
This year’s symposium, held on Friday, September 27, and Saturday, September 28, centered on the theme “Education, Dialogue, and Deliberation in Our Democracy.” Through distinguished speakers, interactive workshops, and collaborative discussions, the symposium fostered open dialogue, deliberative decision-making, and civic agency in an increasingly polarized world.
Co-sponsored by important partner organizations, the Indiana Bar Foundation, the Center on Representative Government, the event highlights the critical role of civic education in strengthening democratic practices.
For more information or inquiries, please contact CECL at cecl@bsu.edu. Join us in shaping the future of civic learning and engagement!
Teacher Spotlight: Jeffry Veatch
Jeff Veatch, a dedicated educator at Muncie Community Schools’ Southside Middle School, has been inspiring students and colleagues alike for over 18 years. His journey into teaching began as a substitute teacher while serving in full-time ministry. Long-term assignments in English and Social Studies classes revealed his passion for education, particularly in empowering students to 
understand their history and shape their futures. “The study of Civics is not only about civil and political rights but the obligations we have to our society and our fellow man,” Veatch explains.
Through his involvement in the Ball State CREATE project, Mr. Veatch has embraced opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. He has participated in the Summer Civic Learning Project and the Fall Civic Learning Symposium, which he describes as transformational experiences. “While each has enriched my personal and professional acumen, the relationships I developed through this opportunity will remain my fondest gift,” he reflects.
Mr. Veatch believes that connecting classroom content to real-life applications is essential for engaging students and fostering civic awareness. He recalls a moment when a student questioned the importance of algebra, assuming it lacked practical value. Veatch drew a connection to the student’s father, a carpenter, demonstrating how algebra is essential in everyday work. “We serve our students best by teaching and showing them how to serve each other with the knowledge and skills we impart in the classroom,” he notes.
Beyond the classroom, Veatch emphasizes the importance of teaching as a cornerstone of humanity. “We must teach our children our shared history so they understand what it is to be flawed, ignorant, needy, weak, and lost,” he says. “It is then that we can light the candle of knowledge that not only illuminates our human condition but shows us where we can go… together.” He aspires to model lifelong learning and service to others, regardless of the subject he teaches.
Jeff Veatch’s dedication to fostering civic engagement, lifelong learning, and meaningful connections exemplifies the vital role educators play in shaping a better future. His contributions to the CREATE project and Southside Middle School continue to inspire students and teachers alike.
II.Opportunities for Teachers and Students
Paid Professional Development: Developing Religious Literacy
Register today for a unique professional development opportunity, January 22, 2025, 4-5 PM EST, a session focused on Developing Religious Literacy. This session is designed to empower educators to confidently and effectively 
incorporate the study of religion into their classrooms.
In today’s interconnected world, understanding diverse religious traditions is vital for fostering global citizenship. Grounded in the National Council for the Social Studies’ C3 Supplement on Teaching about Religion, this interactive session will:
- Explore the legal foundations for teaching about religion in the United States
- Examine case studies addressing the challenges of teaching this sensitive yet essential topic
- Provide actionable guidelines and innovative digital tools for integrating religious literacy into your curriculum
Muncie Community Schools Teachers: Earn a $62.50 stipend for participation and completion of a short survey
This session is tailored to educators who are eager to expand their content knowledge and instructional strategies, to ensure that students gain a deeper appreciation of cultural and religious diversity.
Participants will gain access to resources, including:
- Comprehensive DRL Session Materials: Free, high-quality resources curated by the Institute for Curriculum Services (ICS) to support your classroom instruction.
- Additional Standards-Aligned Tools: Practical materials rooted in primary sources to enhance your teaching about religious and cultural history.
These resources will be shared during the session and can also be accessed anytime on the ICS website.
Secure your spot today: Register Here
Take advantage of this professional development opportunity to enhance your teaching and equip your students with the critical skills they need to thrive in a diverse and dynamic world.
We look forward to seeing you on January 22!
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.
Save the Date: 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy
September 25–27, 2025 | Ball State University
The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State University is thrilled to announce an exciting expansion of its annual Civic Learning Symposium into the 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy! Mark your calendars for September 25–27, 2025, for an engaging three-day exploration of civic studies, dialogue, and democracy.
This conference builds upon the success of the Civic Learning Symposium, which has become an event for educators, students, and community leaders committed to fostering civic engagement and understanding. Join us for an expanded program of dynamic keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and collaborative sessions designed to empower individuals and institutions and strengthen our democracy.
IV.Featured Resources
Institute for Curriculum Services
The Institute for Curriculum Services (ICS) is dedicated to enhancing the quality and accuracy of K-12 instruction about Jews, Judaism, and Jewish history. By creating standards-aligned curricula and offering professional development for educators 
nationwide, ICS fosters a better understanding of Jewish history and culture. At its core, ICS believes that an excellent education is foundational for building a strong civil society where all individuals can thrive.
Founded in 2005, ICS began its work by addressing inaccuracies in public school textbooks. These inaccuracies ranged from misrepresenting Jewish holidays to the perpetuation of supersessionism—the notion that Judaism became obsolete with the birth of Christianity. In 2017, ICS expanded its mission to include professional development opportunities, equipping educators to engage with these complex topics in ways that inspire understanding and respect.
ICS offers a variety of professional learning opportunities to meet educators’ diverse needs, including:
- Live Zoom Workshops: Interactive sessions led by experts.
- Asynchronous Online Courses: Flexible, self-paced learning options.
- Custom School and District Programs: Tailored workshops for unique educational contexts.
Sessions provide educators with content knowledge and classroom-ready resources that are practical and aligned with state and national standards.
Resource Highlights
ICS has curated a collection of teaching materials covering topics such as: Developing Religious Literacy or tools for understanding and teaching the religious and cultural dynamics that shape history and society.
ICS also offers free monthly Live Virtual Workshops, open to all education professionals. These sessions are aligned with educational standards and incorporate primary sources to enrich instruction.
Encourage Students to Apply for the Indiana Senate Page Program
The Indiana Senate has officially opened applications for the 2025 Senate Page Program! Beginning December 1, 2024, students in grades six through twelve can apply to participate in this engaging, full-day program that offers an up-close look at Indiana’s legislative process.
Through the Senate Page Program, students have the opportunity to:
Tour the Indiana Statehouse; Observe legislative debates; Assist Senate staff with age-appropriate tasks; Meet state senators and learn about their work.
“Meeting Senate Pages from our area is one of my favorite parts of the legislative session,” said Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray (R-Martinsville). “Our program gives students the chance to get an up-close look at the legislative process and interact with elected officials, and I hope to see many local students take advantage of this unique learning opportunity again this year.”
Program Details
The Senate Page Program begins in January 2025 and runs through early April. Pages serve on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, with groups scheduled on Wednesdays.
- Program Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Location: Indiana Statehouse, Indianapolis.
- School Excused Absence: Indiana law permits participating students to receive an excused absence for their service.
Positions are limited and fill quickly, so early applications are encouraged.
How to Apply
To apply, Click Here.
Students can select their preferred paging day when completing the application. Once the application is submitted, the Senate Page Office will confirm the date and provide required participation forms. This is an incredible opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of government, engage with civic leaders, and witness the legislative process in action. We encourage teachers, parents, and schools to share this with students who have a passion for civics and leadership.
For more information, contact the Senate Page Office or visit the program website.
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.
