Sept. 8, 2023

On the last day of the Constitutional Convention, Elizabeth Powel asked Benjamin Franklin whether the conventions’ delegates had created a monarchy or a republic. Franklin famously replied, “A republic, if you can keep it.” Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Conner argued that the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to keep the republic have to be taught to each new generation of Americans. In order to help accomplish this goal, Congress established Sept. 17, the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, as Constitution Day. On this day, schools engage students in educational programs about this foundational document. Teachers can access resources to commemorate Constitution Day on the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) History-Social Science website.

Though Constitution Day is but one day a year, it can serve as an opportunity for history-social science educators to consider ways that they can continue to help prepare their students for participation in a democratic society, and how to have a positive impact on their communities. 

Matt Hayes

History-Social Science Coordinator, SDCOE

858-295-8857

San Diego County Board of Education Student Member

The San Diego County Board of Education annually appoints five high school students to serve as student board members and to represent student voice in key educational decisions. Each student serves for a two-month term on a rotating basis. Applications open on Dec.1.

Civil Discourse in the History-Social Science Classroom

Join educators in a dynamic professional development opportunity designed to help teachers incorporate discourse around difficult topics and controversial issues in the classroom. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from Dr. Judy Pace, author of Hard Questions: Learning to Teach Controversial Issues. Dr. Pace will share about her research on this topic that she has conducted internationally and she will discuss how participants can implement the framework for reflective practice she developed based on her findings. Educators can also participate in a follow-up session to discuss their experiences engaging students in discourse and to delve deeper into strategies to make classroom discussions more effective. 

This opportunity is ideal for both history-social science as well as ethnic studies teachers. 

Session 1, featuring Dr. Pace, will be held Dec. 7 and the optional follow-up session is Feb. 8. The cost to attend both sessions is $175 per individual, or $120 when attending in teams. The cost for Day 1 only is $85 per person. Registration is now open and space is limited.

Literacy in the History-Social Science Classroom: Teaching History with Primary Sources

During this hands-on, collaborative session, grade 3-12 teachers will discuss ideas about improving students' historical thinking and literacy skills by incorporating primary source documents into lessons. Participants will learn about quality resources and proven strategies. They should also come prepared to share resources they have successfully used in their own classrooms. 

Global Book Bags: Building Community Through Story 

Continue developing your students’ sense of community by attending the California Global Education Project’s Global Book Bags workshop.

This in-person workshop introduces elementary teachers to the Global Book Bags program, which presents global-themed children's literature for use in home or classroom learning activities. Based on the California Global Education Project global competence framework, participants will receive one picture book, sample activities, and access to digital book lists and additional learning activities. 

Date: Oct. 7

Time: 9 a.m. to noon (Coffee, tea, and goodies begin at 8:30 a.m.)

Location: University of San Diego

This workshop is free, but online registration is required. For more information, contact Stephanie Buttell-Maxin from California Global Education Project.

Street Law

Street Law supports civic education, with a focus on the judicial system. Its mission is to help people understand how law and government work, effectively advocate for themselves and others, and recognize the importance of their role as engaged participants in civic life. 

Judges in the Classroom

Judges in the Classroom pairs a sitting judge with classrooms at all grade levels (K-12 in person, and grades 3-12 virtual) to engage in a lesson that teaches students about the judicial branch of government. Requests are now being accepted for the 2022-23 school year.