November 2, 2015
Grant provides professional development for civics, government teachers
The Center for Social Studies at K-State is offering a free professional development program for Kansas civics and government teachers who want to provide an exemplary curricular program for their students.
The James Madison Legacy Project is part of a nationwide professional development program directed by the Center for Civic Education, a nonprofit educational organization that was recently awarded a federal grant under the U.S. Department of Education's Supporting Effective Educator Development, or SEED, grant program. The legacy project is designed to provide professional development for middle and high school teachers in civics and government focusing on the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
Thomas S. Vontz, professor and director of the Center for Social Studies at K-State and "We the People" state co-coordinator, believes highly effective civics and government teachers are the key to inspiring the next generation of Americans.
"In order to help students become effective and engaged members of 'We the People' and further the goal of a nation that is supposed to be of, by, and for the people, it is critical that teachers have access to the people, strategies and resources that will help them bring the subject to life each and every day for their students," he said.
The James Madison Legacy Project uses a professional development model that's enhanced with online resources, many of which were developed by the center. These resources will provide teachers with rich academic content and a mastery of teaching methods useful in helping students develop the capacity and inclination to become competent and responsible participants in the civic life of their communities and the nation.
For more information, contact Vontz at tvontz@k-state.edu or call 785-532-5927.