{"id":899,"date":"2025-02-12T22:32:13","date_gmt":"2025-02-13T03:32:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.bsu.edu\/civics\/?p=899"},"modified":"2025-02-25T06:47:14","modified_gmt":"2025-02-25T11:47:14","slug":"create-newsletter-february-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.bsu.edu\/civics\/create-newsletter-february-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"CREATE Newsletter \u2013 February 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

February Newsletter<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Issue 21<\/strong><\/h3>\n

I. CREATE News and Updates<\/strong><\/h4>\n
    Celebrating Muncie\u2019s African American Community<\/ol>\n
      Support Young Historians at National History Day<\/ol>\n
        Save the Date: Civics Day 2025!<\/ol>\n
          Teacher Spotlight: Bre’Anna Serf<\/ol>\n

          II. Opportunities for Teachers and Students<\/strong><\/h4>\n
            Professional Development: Muncie’s African American History<\/ol>\n
              CREATE’s Civic Badge Program<\/ol>\n
                2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy<\/ol>\n

                IV. Featured Resource<\/strong><\/h4>\n
                  Indiana Bar Foundation: 2025 Indiana Civics Summit<\/ol>\n
                    Featured Resource: The National Constitution Center<\/ol>\n

                    CREATE News and Updates<\/code><\/strong><\/h2>\n

                    Celebrating Muncie\u2019s African American Community<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                    Muncie\u2019s history is deeply enriched by the contributions of its African American residents, whose impact spans generations. From the city\u2019s earliest Black settlers in the mid-19th century to today\u2019s community leaders, Black Munsonians have played a vital role in shaping the city\u2019s economic, political, and social landscape.\"\"<\/p>\n

                    The roots of Muncie\u2019s Black community trace back to the 19th century, with families like the Clarks, Scotts, and Artises among the early settlers. By the 1870s, 48 African American families called Muncie home, comprising approximately 1.6% of the city\u2019s population. These pioneering residents worked as barbers, blacksmiths, restaurateurs, and laborers, contributing to the city\u2019s developing economy.<\/p>\n

                    As industrialization progressed, many Black residents found employment at the Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company. By 1890, Muncie\u2019s African American population had grown to 418 residents, reflecting expanding opportunities and increasing presence of Black workers and families.<\/p>\n

                    The Vivian V. Conley and Hurley C. Goodall Jr. Multicultural Center<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                    In recognition of two influential civil rights leaders, Ball State University recently named its Multicultural Center after \"\"Vivian V. Conley and Hurley C. Goodall Jr. This dedication honors their enduring legacy of education, advocacy, and service to both Ball State and the greater Muncie community.<\/p>\n

                    The Vivian V. Conley and Hurley C. Goodall Jr. Multicultural Center<\/a>, which relocated to a new facility in 2021, serves as a hub for fostering inclusiveness and belonging. It provides essential resources and programming to support students from all backgrounds while celebrating culture and promoting a welcoming environment.<\/p>\n

                    Vivian V. Conley: A Champion for Equity and Education<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                    A lifelong advocate for education and justice, Vivian V. Conley earned her bachelor\u2019s degree in Political Science from Ball State in 1988. While \"\"attending Ball State, she founded the Nontraditional Student Association, offering support to adult learners. Her activism extended beyond campus, as she played a key role in desegregating Muncie\u2019s Tuhey Pool in the 1950s.<\/p>\n

                    Ms. Conley\u2019s dedication to education continued through her work as the education coordinator at Trinity United Methodist Church, where she guided more than 150 students toward college, many of whom attended Ball State. She also served on the Muncie Public Library Board and the Area 6 Council on Aging, advocating for public housing, youth education, and access to opportunity. <\/p>\n

                    Hurley C. Goodall: Public Service and Civil Rights<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                    Hurley C. Goodall<\/a> was a pioneering figure in Muncie\u2019s civic and political landscape. He made history as the city\u2019s first Black firefighter and later became the first African American elected to the Indiana General Assembly, serving seven terms. As a legislator, he played a pivotal role in securing the recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Indiana and championed equity and justice throughout his career.\"\"<\/p>\n

                    At Ball State, Mr. Goodall was a visiting fellow at the Center for Middletown Studies<\/a>, contributing to research on Black history in Muncie, including the Black Middletown Project. His contributions to the University are commemorated through the Hurley Goodall Distinguished Faculty\/Staff Award<\/a>, which recognizes faculty and staff who advance the mission of the Multicultural Center.<\/p>\n

                    Beyond his work at Ball State, Mr. Goodall was a founding member of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus and an unwavering advocate for civil rights. He passed away in 2021 at the age of 93, leaving behind an indelible legacy of leadership and service.<\/p>\n

                    Strength in Community<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                    Throughout the 20th century, Muncie\u2019s Black community continued to advocate for civil rights, economic empowerment, and equal opportunities. Churches, social organizations, and grassroots efforts played a vital role in promoting justice and progress.<\/p>\n

                    As we celebrate Black History Month, CREATE<\/a> honors the resilience, contributions, and leadership of Muncie\u2019s African American residents. Their stories, struggles, and triumphs remind us that Black history is Muncie\u2019s history\u2014a history that continues to inspire and shape our community today.<\/p>\n

                    To explore Muncie\u2019s African American history further, we encourage teachers and others to visit Ball State resource: Black Muncie History Project records<\/a>.<\/p>\n

                    Support Young Historians at National History Day!<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                    CREATE<\/a> encourages faculty, students, and community members to take part in an exciting opportunity to inspire the \"\"next generation of historians! National History Day in Indiana<\/a> (NHDI) is seeking volunteer judges for its 2025 regional and state contests, where students in grades 4-12 will showcase their research and analytical skills through papers, websites, exhibits, performances, and documentaries.<\/p>\n

                    Why Judge?<\/strong> Participating as a judge offers a unique opportunity to engage with young scholars as they explore historical topics using primary and secondary sources. Judges do not need prior historical expertise\u2014students are the content experts\u2014but a passion for learning, feedback, and encouragement is essential. Your role will be to evaluate projects and provide constructive feedback to help students improve their work.<\/p>\n

                    What to Expect:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      Judges commit to one contest day from 8:00 AM \u2013 2:00 PM<\/ol>\n
                        Breakfast and lunch are provided for all volunteers<\/ol>\n
                          Judges will review and assess student projects in regional and state competitions<\/ol>\n

                          \"\"<\/p>\n

                          2025 Regional Contest Dates & Locations<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

                            February 22 \u2013 Northwest Contest (John Young Middle School, Mishawaka)<\/ol>\n
                              March 1 \u2013 South Central Contest (Franklin College, Franklin)<\/ol>\n
                                March 8 \u2013 West Contest (Indiana State University, Terre Haute)<\/ol>\n
                                  March 8 \u2013 South Contest (Hanover College, Hanover)<\/ol>\n
                                    March 15 \u2013 North Central Contest (Carmel High School, Carmel)<\/ol>\n
                                      2025 State Contest: April 26 \u2013 Marian University, Indianapolis<\/ol>\n

                                      If you\u2019re interested in volunteering as a judge, or have any questions, please reach out to Claire Anderson, NHDI Volunteer Coordinator, at canderson@indianahistory.org.<\/p>\n

                                      By serving as a judge, you will play a role in helping students develop research, writing, and presentation skills that will benefit them for years to come. Thank you for supporting civic learning, historical inquiry, and student success!<\/p>\n

                                      Save the Date: Civics Day 2025!<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                      Preparations are underway for Civics Day 2025! Please mark your calendars and get ready for a wonderful day of community engagement, hands-on learning, and civic participation. The Civics Day Committee met recently to continue shaping

                                      \"\"

                                      MC-66335 Civics Day at Muncie Central High School<\/a> on Apr. 19, 2024. Photo by Samantha Blankenship \/ Ball State University<\/p><\/div>this year\u2019s event, and there is so much to look forward to.<\/p>\n

                                      This year\u2019s Civics Day will bring together students, educators, and community members to engage in meaningful activities that highlight the importance of civic responsibility. One of the major components will be the expansion of our volunteer and job shadowing opportunities. With an updated list of participating organizations, students will have the chance to explore careers in public service, non-profits, and other fields where civic engagement plays a vital role.<\/p>\n

                                      The morning will be filled with large-scale activities designed to inspire and educate. Guest speakers, live demonstrations, and tree planting initiatives are just some of the experiences in store. The afternoon will focus on teacher-led sessions that provide students with opportunities to reflect on their role in the community. A preliminary survey is being

                                      \"\"

                                      MC-66335 Civics Day at Muncie Central High School on Apr. 19, 2024. Photo by Samantha Blankenship \/ Ball State University<\/p><\/div>conducted among educators to ensure a diverse and enriching selection of activities, and guidance will be available for those who need assistance in planning their sessions.<\/p>\n

                                      Beyond structured activities, Civics Day will feature special events that invite students to take an active role in their communities. Plans are underway for students to visit nursing homes to engage with residents through games, crafts, and conversations, fostering intergenerational connections. In collaboration with elementary schools, students may also participate in reading programs, plant flowers, and teach younger students about civics in fun and interactive ways. Other ideas include \"\"partnerships with local athletic coaches to help with maintenance projects, a potential joint Esports initiative with Ball State University, and community beautification projects in partnership with neighborhood associations. A unique time capsule project is also under consideration, where students will have the opportunity to plan and bury artifacts that reflect our current era, creating a lasting connection to the future.<\/p>\n

                                      The committee is also exploring opportunities to bring in an exciting guest speaker\u2014whether an athlete, celebrity, or musician\u2014to provide students with an inspiring perspective on civic engagement. Meanwhile, the ROTC has been invited to bring their

                                      \"\"

                                      MC-66335 Civics Day at Muncie Central High School on Apr. 19, 2024. Photo by Samantha Blankenship \/ Ball State University<\/p><\/div>inflatable obstacle course.<\/p>\n

                                      With so many exciting initiatives in development, the coming weeks will focus on outreach efforts. Invitations will soon be sent to organizations and individuals who have participated in past years, as well as new partners who may be interested in joining us. The logistics of transportation for off-site activities are being coordinated, and promotional materials\u2014including flyers and invitations\u2014will soon be available to build excitement and encourage participation. F<\/p>\n

                                      We encourage everyone to get involved and help make Civics Day 2025 the most impactful yet. This is an opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate civic learning in action. Stay tuned for more updates, and if you have ideas or suggestions, we\u2019d love to hear them. <\/p>\n

                                      For more information or inquiries, please contact the CREATE<\/a> team at CREATE@bsu.edu. <\/p>\n

                                      Teacher Spotlight: Bre’Anna Serf<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                      We are honored to spotlight Bre’Anna Serf, a dedicated educator at West View Elementary<\/a>, whose journey into teaching is deeply rooted in her family\u2019s legacy of education and her passion for shaping young minds. Bre’Anna embodies the principles of civic education, social-emotional learning, and student empowerment, making her a true leader in the field of education.<\/p>\n

                                      A Legacy of Learning: Following in the Footsteps of Educators<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                      Bre’Anna Serf\u2019s path to teaching was shaped by her upbringing in a family of educators. From an early age, she was immersed in \"\"conversations about pedagogy, the transformative power of education, and the responsibilities of educators. Watching her family members dedicate themselves to shaping young minds instilled in her a profound appreciation for the profession.<\/p>\n

                                      \u201cI became a teacher because I grew up in a family of educators, which deeply influenced my path. From a young age, I was surrounded by discussions about teaching, learning, and the importance of education. Their passion for teaching was contagious, and I found myself drawn to the idea of contributing in the same meaningful way<\/em>,\u201d Bre\u2019Anna shares.<\/p>\n

                                      For her, teaching is more than just a career\u2014it is a calling, a way to positively influence lives and communities academically, socially, and emotionally. This foundational belief guides her daily interactions with students, fostering an environment of inclusivity, encouragement, and lifelong learning.<\/p>\n

                                      Making Civic Education Relevant and Accessible<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                      Bre’Anna is a firm believer that civic education should be integrated into the classroom from an early age. She understands that students, regardless of their age, have the capacity to engage with and contribute to their communities in meaningful \"\"ways.<\/p>\n

                                      \u201cTo enhance civic education in classrooms, I recommend starting small by encouraging students to engage with their local communities. Whether it\u2019s participating in a neighborhood clean-up, attending a town hall, or volunteering for a local cause, these hands-on experiences help students see how they can actively contribute to their surroundings<\/em>,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n

                                      By introducing civics early, Bre\u2019Anna helps students learn about their rights and responsibilities and cultivate a deep sense of ownership and empowerment in our community. She sees civic education as a lifelong journey, one that begins in the classroom and continues throughout a person\u2019s life.<\/p>\n

                                      \u201cNo student is ‘too young’ to begin learning and engaging in civic topics. When we start young, we foster a sense of ownership and empowerment that will shape the way they interact with their communities and the world around them<\/em>,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n

                                      Social-Emotional Learning and Civic Education<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                      One of the most impactful aspects of Bre’Anna’s teaching philosophy is her dedication to integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) with civic education. She believes that to create engaged and responsible citizens, students must first develop key \"\"social-emotional skills such as empathy, communication, and self-awareness.<\/p>\n

                                      \u201cMy passion for combining social-emotional learning with civic education in the classroom stems from my belief that both are essential for fostering well-rounded, empathetic, and engaged citizens<\/em>,\u201d Bre\u2019Anna shares.<\/p>\n

                                      By emphasizing SEL, she equips students with the emotional intelligence necessary to navigate complex social issues with integrity and respect. In her classroom, students not only learn about civic duties but also practice engaging with differing perspectives in a thoughtful and compassionate manner.<\/p>\n

                                      \u201cSocial and emotional learning helps students develop key skills like self-awareness, empathy, and communication, which are crucial for understanding different perspectives and engaging in productive, respectful dialogue. When paired with civic education, SEL allows students to not only learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens but also to practice how to navigate complex social issues with compassion and integrity<\/em>,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

                                      This integrated approach ensures that students are not just informed about civic matters but also prepared to actively and responsibly participate in their communities.<\/p>\n

                                      A Lasting Impact<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                      Bre’Anna Serf\u2019s commitment to education extends far beyond the classroom walls. Her efforts to intertwine civic responsibility with emotional intelligence create a learning environment where students feel empowered, respected, and inspired to contribute\"\" positively to society. Through her dedication, Bre’Anna is shaping a new generation of citizens\u2014individuals who are not only knowledgeable about their communities but also deeply invested in their growth and improvement. Her students leave her classroom with more than just academic knowledge; they carry with them the essential skills needed to foster dialogue, build relationships, and create lasting change.<\/p>\n

                                      We celebrate Bre\u2019Anna\u2019s work at West View Elementary<\/a>, and we are reminded of the profound impact teachers have in molding future leaders, thinkers, and citizens. Bre\u2019Anna Serf exemplifies the essence of an educator who not only teaches but also inspires, uplifts, and empowers.<\/p>\n

                                      II.Opportunities for Teachers and Students<\/code><\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                      Professional Development: Muncie’s African American History<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                      CREATE<\/a> invites Muncie Community Schools (MCS) educators and the Ball State community to its next monthly professional development session, focusing on African American history in Muncie and Indiana.<\/p>\n

                                        Date<\/strong>: Wednesday, February 26, 2025<\/ol>\n
                                          Time<\/strong>: 4:00 – 5:00 PM (EST)<\/ol>\n
                                            Location<\/strong>: Online via Zoom<\/ol>\n
                                              Featured Speaker<\/strong>: Dr. Kiesha Warren-Gordon<\/a><\/ol>\n

                                              Dr. Warren-Gordon<\/a> will lead a presentation on the struggles, achievements, and contributions of our local Black community, providing historical insights and critical perspectives for educators to bring into their classrooms. With a strong background in critical community engagement and racial justice, she has dedicated her career to ensuring that historical narratives reflect diverse experiences and voices.<\/p>\n

                                              A widely recognized scholar and community leader, Dr. Warren-Gordon<\/a> was awarded the 2023 Gerald Bepko Community Engagement Grant Award from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and was named Ball State\u2019s Community-Engaged Faculty Member of the Year. Her work bridges academia and real-world impact, making her an invaluable voice in this conversation.<\/p>\n

                                              This professional development session is part of CREATE\u2019s mission to providemeaningful learning opportunities for MCS educators. By participating, teachers will gain valuable knowledge on local African American history and practical strategies to incorporate these lessons into their classroom.<\/p>\n

                                              To register CLICK HERE<\/a> or for more information or to receive the Zoom link, please contact Dr. David J. Roof<\/a> at djroof@bsu.edu.<\/p>\n

                                              Muncie Community Schools Teachers: Earn a $62.50 stipend for participation and completion of a short survey<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                              2024 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                              The Center for Economic and Civic Learning<\/a> at Ball State is pleased to announce the 2024 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy, scheduled for September

                                              \"\"

                                              The 2024 Civic Learning Symposium<\/p><\/div> 27-28, 2025. This year\u2019s theme, \u201cCharacter, Aesthetics, and Community: The Interplay Between Community, Art, Politics, and Civic Identity<\/em>,\u201d will explore the evolving connections between individual character development, civic identity, and the role of aesthetics in shaping democratic engagement.<\/p>\n

                                              This conference will bring together scholars, educators, community leaders, artists, and practitioners to examine how civic identity, artistic expression, and community engagement intersect to shape democratic life. Through interactive discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and engaging workshops, we will explore how character, aesthetics, and public life inform and influence each other in fostering a vibrant civic culture.<\/p>\n

                                              Call for Proposals<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                              We invite proposals that contribute to the broader conversation on democracy and civic renewal, please submit your proposal here<\/a>. <\/p>\n

                                              Key Dates<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                Proposal Submission Deadline: June 15, 2024<\/ol>\n
                                                  Notification of Acceptance: July 7, 2024<\/ol>\n
                                                    Conference Dates: September 27-28, 2024<\/ol>\n

                                                    Submit Your Proposal HERE<\/a><\/p>\n

                                                    Join the Conversation<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                    The Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy<\/a> is an opportunity to engage with leading voices in civic education, community leadership, and democratic engagement. Hosted by the Center for Economic and Civic Learning, this annual gathering fosters meaningful dialogue and advances scholarship at the intersection of democracy, civic responsibility, and public life.<\/p>\n

                                                    We invite you to join us in this discussion. For more information, visit our website or contact Dr. David J. Roof <\/a>at djroof@bsu.edu.<\/p>\n

                                                    CREATE’s Civic Badge Program<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                                    Description<\/strong>: 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.<\/p>\n

                                                    \"\"<\/a>Award Criteria<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

                                                  1. Educators must complete at least ten hours of professional development focused on civic education. This can include workshops, seminars, webinars, or courses that emphasize democratic education, civic responsibility, and community engagement.<\/li>\n
                                                  2. Participants must demonstrate how the knowledge gained from the professional development has been applied in their teaching practice. This could be through student activities, or projects that promote civic engagement and understanding.<\/li>\n
                                                  3. Show evidence of ongoing commitment to civic education by participating in civic-related events, continuing education, or community service beyond the minimum professional development hours.<\/li>\n

                                                    Submission Process<\/strong>: Please complete the follow form HERE<\/a><\/p>\n

                                                    Deadlines for Submission<\/strong>: December 15th and August 15th. <\/p>\n

                                                    Method of Submission<\/strong>: Educators should submit documentation of professional development, HERE<\/a><\/p>\n

                                                    Selection Process<\/strong>: A panel will review submissions. Recipients will be chosen based on the impact of their civic education initiatives, and their demonstrated commitment to fostering civic engagement among students.<\/p>\n

                                                    Recognition<\/strong>: Award recipients will be recognized at annual Conference on Civic Studies.<\/p>\n

                                                    IV.Featured Resources<\/code><\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                                    Indiana Bar Foundation: The 2025 Indiana Civics Summit<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                                    The 2025 Indiana Civics Summit<\/strong>, scheduled for Thursday, April 17, promises to be an event for educators and civic leaders alike. The summit will focus on three key areas: student civic involvement, a keynote presentation by Jeff Rosen, and the launch of A250, a reflection on America\u2019s 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n

                                                    Key Themes of the Civics Summit<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                    Student Civic Involvement<\/strong>: A core component of the summit will highlight innovative ways to engage students in civic \"\"activities, fostering responsible citizenship and democratic participation. Sessions will explore student-led initiatives, service-learning projects, and curriculum strategies that empower young people to make a difference in their communities.<\/p>\n

                                                    Renowned constitutional scholar Jeff Rosen<\/a> will provide insights into the evolving landscape of American democracy and the significance of civic education in upholding democratic values.<\/p>\n

                                                    In anticipation of the nation\u2019s 250th anniversary, the summit will introduce the A250 initiative, which aims to inspire civic engagement through historical reflection and forward-looking discussions on democracy\u2019s future.<\/p>\n

                                                    More Indiana Bar Foundation Events for Educators<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                    Educators can access a range of professional development opportunities through upcoming events hosted by the Indiana Bar Foundation. These workshops and institutes provide valuable resources for integrating civic education into classrooms:<\/p>\n

                                                      April 5<\/strong>: Primary Source Documents Workshop \u2013 A deep dive into using historical documents to enhance civic learning.<\/ol>\n
                                                        June 5<\/strong>: Inside Indiana Government Workshop \u2013 An interactive exploration of state government processes and institutions.<\/ol>\n
                                                          June 22-26<\/strong>: We the People (WTP) Institute \u2013 An intensive training for educators on teaching constitutional principles.<\/ol>\n
                                                            July 13-17<\/strong>: WTP Philadelphia Institute for Grades 4-8 \u2013 A specialized program focusing on civic education for younger students.<\/ol>\n

                                                            We will share details on these events to help promote them within the Muncie community.<\/p>\n

                                                            Please stay tuned for more updates as these exciting programs unfold.<\/p>\n

                                                            Featured Resource: The National Constitution Center<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                                            The National Constitution Center<\/a> serves as a premier resource for civic education and constitutional literacy, offering

                                                            \"\"

                                                            Highlights at Old City\u2019s National Constitution Center\u2014America\u2019s first and only museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution\u2014include interactive exhibits; the powerful, multimedia Freedom Rising performance; Signers\u2019 Hall, filled with life-sized statues of the signers of the U.S. Constitution; and nationally touring exhibitions.<\/p><\/div>teachers an array of engaging, high-quality materials to bring the U.S. Constitution to life for students. Whether you are looking for classroom-ready lessons, interactive experiences, or professional development opportunities, the Center provides tools that can enhance civic learning for students of all ages.<\/p>\n

                                                            Interactive Learning for All Ages<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                                            The National Constitution Center<\/a> is dedicated to helping students explore, debate, and celebrate the Constitution through a variety of dynamic resources, including:<\/p>\n

                                                              Constitution 101 Curriculum \u2013 A foundational civic education course designed to help students understand the principles, history, and interpretation of the Constitution.<\/ol>\n
                                                                The Drafting Table \u2013 A unique tool allowing students to trace the evolution of key constitutional clauses, exploring how different ideas shaped the final document.<\/ol>\n
                                                                  Supreme Court Cases Library \u2013 An invaluable resource for teaching landmark Supreme Court decisions, featuring historical context and case summaries.<\/ol>\n
                                                                    Founders’ Library \u2013 A digital collection of essential writings from the Founding Fathers, providing historical perspectives on democracy and governance.<\/ol>\n
                                                                      Virtual Student Programs \u2013 Live and on-demand interactive sessions with constitutional experts, making remote learning and classroom discussions more engaging.<\/ol>\n

                                                                      Constitution in the Headlines: Bringing Civics to Current Events<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                                                      The Center also provides up-to-date resources that connect constitutional principles to current events. The Constitution in the Headlines section offers articles and discussion guides that help students analyze constitutional debates happening today, encouraging critical thinking and civic engagement.<\/p>\n

                                                                      Classroom Resources for Teachers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                                                      Teachers can access a comprehensive Classroom Resources Library<\/a>, categorized by topic and grade level. These resources include:<\/p>\n

                                                                        Lesson plans aligned with national and state standards.<\/ol>\n
                                                                          Primary source documents for deeper analysis.<\/ol>\n
                                                                            Multimedia content, such as videos and podcasts, to supplement classroom discussions.<\/ol>\n
                                                                              Activities and games that make constitutional learning interactive and engaging.<\/ol>\n

                                                                              Professional Learning Opportunities<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                                                              The National Constitution Center<\/a> offers professional development programs that help teachers deepen their knowledge of constitutional law and pedagogy. These include:<\/p>\n

                                                                                Workshops and webinars on teaching constitutional history and contemporary issues.<\/ol>\n
                                                                                  Summer institutes for educators seeking intensive, hands-on learning experiences.<\/ol>\n
                                                                                    Custom training sessions designed to meet the needs of schools and districts.<\/ol>\n

                                                                                    Constitution Day and Election Resources<\/strong><\/h4>\n

                                                                                    Each year, the Center provides Constitution Day Resources<\/a> to help teachers celebrate this important civic holiday in their classrooms. Additionally, educators can take advantage of election teaching resources, which include simulations, mock elections, and lessons on the democratic process.<\/p>\n

                                                                                    By integrating the National Constitution Center\u2019s<\/a> resources into your curriculum, you can help students:<\/p>\n

                                                                                      Develop a deeper understanding of constitutional principles.<\/ol>\n
                                                                                        Engage in meaningful discussions about democracy and civic responsibility.<\/ol>\n
                                                                                          Strengthen their critical thinking and debate skills.<\/ol>\n
                                                                                            Connect historical constitutional debates to modern-day issues.<\/ol>\n

                                                                                            For more information and to access these free educational tools, visit the National Constitution Center<\/a>\u2019s website.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            CREATE Information<\/code><\/strong><\/h2>\n

                                                                                            CREATE<\/a> can support MCS teachers. If you have questions or to recommend additional Professional Development events, please email CREATE@bsu.edu.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            To stay informed of the latest resources and opportunities, sign up for CREATE\u2019s email list.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            Visit the CREATE Website<\/a>.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            CREATE<\/a> is grateful for the support of the U.S. Department of Education.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            \"\"<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                                                                                            February Newsletter Issue 21 I. CREATE News and Updates Celebrating Muncie\u2019s African American Community Support Young Historians at National History Day Save the Date: Civics Day 2025! Teacher Spotlight: Bre’Anna Serf II. Opportunities for Teachers and Students Professional Development: Muncie’s African American History CREATE’s Civic Badge Program 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy IV. 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CREATE News and Updates Celebrating Muncie\u2019s African American Community Support Young Historians at National History Day Save the Date: Civics Day 2025! Teacher Spotlight: Bre’Anna Serf II. Opportunities for Teachers and Students Professional Development: Muncie’s African American History CREATE’s Civic Badge Program 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy IV. 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