Service learning has been a cornerstone of my educational approach for over a decade. In service learning, students apply the scientific method to real-world problems and offer real-world solutions.

How does a teacher narrow down over 5000 years of human history and culture for the classroom? Use essential questions!

“Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.” —Adlai E. Stevenson II, U.S. Diplomat, governor of Illinois, and presidential candidate

This article covers the influence of Catholicism in shaping the form and philosophy of government in Latin America, affecting how Latino students and their families think and feel about government. Tapping into that prior knowledge and experience, and prompting students to seek these connections between history, government, and their personal lives and cultural backgrounds is a unique and powerful way to engage and sustain the interest of young students.

It’s not a stretch to say that Hispanic/Latino students have an ancestral background in the subjects we teach.

Many social studies teachers want to inspire their students to apply what they are learning in class outside of school. 

A few years ago, I got caught up in a controversy that changed the way I teach. 

History/social studies teachers know they have to cover, at some point, Africa in world history courses and the African American experience in U.S. history courses.

Democracy begins in the classroom.

There couldn’t be a more meaningful time to recognize the work of Lori Wenzinger (center), recipient of the Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Teaching Award of Excellence.