Admin Minute

As we approach the November 3rd midterm election, the Social Studies Department would like to share how students have developed an understanding of community building and civic engagement throughout their public-school education. We also want to highlight the important research and media literacy skills they have learned to help them navigate online information responsibly, whether conducting research, evaluating news sources, or engaging with content on social media. 

Our students have built a strong foundation in social studies while in elementary and middle school while learning about history, community and citizenship. At the high school level, our classes aim to connect these concepts while students apply their knowledge to real world issues. During their senior year, students will take either Current World Affairs/Civics or AP Government and Politics/AP Comparative Government. This experience provides students with the tools to engage as active members of our society, whether it is through volunteering, helping a neighbor, or even getting out to vote on November 3rd.       

Students are growing up in a world where information is more accessible than ever before, creating exciting opportunities for learning, exploration, and civic engagement. At the same time, this abundance of information makes it essential for students to develop strong media literacy and research skills. Because research and source analysis are central components of the Social Studies curriculum, students learn how to evaluate the credibility of information by identifying bias, checking publication dates, assessing the expertise and authority of authors, and examining the evidence used to support claims. These skills are especially important as artificial intelligence becomes a more common source of information. 

To help students become thoughtful consumers of information, we provide a variety of activities focused on information literacy. One resource we use is Ad Fontes Media, which allows students to compare how different news outlets report on the same topic and analyze varying perspectives across the political spectrum. Through these exercises, students learn to consider where information originates, evaluate its reliability, and recognize potential bias. We also encourage students to verify information using trusted resources such as Ballotpedia, PolitiFact, FactCheck.org, Snopes, and reputable news organizations including the Associated Press (AP) and Reuters. By developing these skills, students are better prepared to conduct research, make informed decisions, and thoughtfully evaluate the information they encounter online, particularly as they engage with issues and candidates during election season. 

 As we approach this election season, we encourage families to continue conversations at home about civic responsibility, informed decision-making, and respectful discussion of different viewpoints. Our goal is not to tell students what to think, but to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking tools needed to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in their communities. We are proud of the work our students have done to become thoughtful citizens, responsible consumers of information, and active participants in our democracy. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare students not only for academic success, but also for lifelong civic engagement.

Mara Bischoff

Social Studies Lead