The Social Studies Professional | December 16, 2025 | No. 461
NCSS Executive Director Kelly McFarland Stratman shares insights from the 105th NCSS Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., and takes a moment to reflect on 2025 as we move into the holiday season.
The NCSS Office will be closed between December 25, 2025, and January 1, 2026. Happy Holidays!
2025-2026 NCSS Board of Directors and Officer Elections
The 2025-2026 NCSS Board of Directors and Officer election ballot is open as of December 8, 2025, and closes January 15, 2026. NCSS members in good standing as of October 15, 2025, are eligible to vote, and received instructions and credentials by email for accessing the online ballot starting December 8.
2025 NCSS FASSE Award Winners Announced
Upcoming America250 Webinars with Center for CivicEducation
The Center for Civic Education will be offering two free 60-Minute Civics webinars in early January 2026.
The Constitution as Living Document: Progress or Departure? January 7,2026 • 7 pm EST. Learn more and register.
60-Minute Civics: America 250: Reimagining 1776 for Today’s Classrooms January 15,2026 • 7 pm EST. Learn more and register.
Apply for a National Fellowship for K-12 Educators by January 31
Led by William & Mary and the National Council for History Education, We the Teachersis a national fellowshipthat prepares K-12 educators to lead the next chapter in American history/civic education. The three-part program includes:
Build your skills with 5-hour online microcourses, focusing on topics including historical inquiry, civil discourse, non-fiction reading strategies, and more; all accredited by the W&M School of Education.
A four-day, immersive Congress of Educators in Williamsburg, VA (July 27-30, 2026), featuring substantive and inspiring content and pedagogy sessions paired with place-based learning.
Lead a workshop and/or peer learning community in your state.
Participants will receive a $2,500 stipend for travel expenses and as a recognition of time and effort. Additionally, all lodging, food, and participation costs are fully funded. K-12 educators, education specialists, administrators, and curriculum supervisors are encouraged to apply. Special preferences will be given to current classroom teachers. Learn more and submit your application here by January 31, 2026.
Funding Opportunity for Education Innovators
NewSchools Venture Fund is offering more than $10M in funding and tailored support for leaders working to reimagine K-12 education.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and are due by January 8, 11:59 PM PT.
Apply for the Education Innovation Showcase by January 5, 2026
The Education Innovation Showcase honors K-12 education system leaders advancing innovation in their community and fostering meaningful change at the systems level. The top ten finalists will take the stage at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit for a shot at each category's grand prize package. Learn more and apply by January 5th.
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