CREATE250 Recruitment — Civic Learning Community of Practice + Mentor Teachers
Applications close March 5, 2026


CREATE250 | Center for Economic and Civic Learning | Ball State University Teachers College

Join CREATE250’s statewide civic learning network for Title I schools

CREATE250 supports educators who want to strengthen civic education through collaboration,
curriculum development, and student-centered inquiry as Indiana prepares for America’s 250th anniversary.

Questions? Email cecl@bsu.edu

What participants do
  • Engage in sustained professional learning and collaboration statewide
  • Attend the Summer Civic Learning Academy
  • Implement at least one CREATE250-aligned civic project with students
  • Receive mentoring and support throughout the program year
Why it matters

CREATE250 advances equity-focused civic learning in Title I schools across Indiana,
strengthening civic understanding, engagement, and opportunity as America approaches the Semiquincentennial.

Track 1: Statewide Community of Practice (CoP)

For teachers in Title I schools who want to strengthen civic learning through collaboration and inquiry

CREATE250’s Statewide Community of Practice supports educators committed to high-quality civic learning.
Participants collaborate with peers across Indiana and implement meaningful civic projects with students.

Participant benefits
  • $1,000 stipend for full participation (paid at completion)
  • Eligibility for a funded, expenses-paid civic immersion experience in Washington, D.C. (selected participants)
  • Ongoing access to curriculum resources and statewide professional learning communities
Selection is guided by Title I participation, commitment to project activities, and demonstrated interest in student civic development.

Track 2: Mentor Teachers

For experienced educators in Title I schools ready to lead civic learning and mentor colleagues

Mentor Teachers serve as instructional leaders—supporting inquiry-based, primary-source-driven civic instruction
while meeting monthly with small groups of teachers for mentoring and collaboration.

Mentor Teacher benefits
  • $2,000 stipend for full participation and mentoring
  • Eligibility for an expenses-paid summer civic immersion experience in Washington, D.C. (selected participants)
  • Access to curriculum resources, professional networks, and statewide collaboration opportunities
Participation is competitive and based on demonstrated readiness for civic leadership, commitment to mentoring, and alignment with CREATE250 goals.

Quick FAQ

Who should apply?

Educators in Title I schools who want to strengthen civic learning through sustained collaboration,
project implementation with students, and professional learning across the CREATE250 network.

What will I be selected on?

Selection is guided by Title I context, readiness and commitment to participate fully,
and a clear interest in supporting student civic development.

I’m interested but not sure which track fits.

Apply for the Community of Practice to grow your practice alongside peers statewide.
Apply for Mentor Teacher if you’re ready to lead, coach, and support colleagues through monthly mentoring.

Applications close March 5, 2026 • Questions: cecl@bsu.edu

CREATE250 is led by Ball State University’s Center for Economic & Civic Learning and advances equity-focused civic learning in Title I schools across Indiana as part of America250.