The Social Studies Professional | June 16, 2026 | No. 472
NCSS Executive Director Kelly McFarland Stratman is pleased to share that our Annual Conference Early Bird Registration rates have been extended from June 30 to July 15. That means you have extra time to reserve your spot for our weekend of learning, collaboration, and inspiration with social studies educators from around the world, all while saving on registration.
Celebrating Excellence Across the Social Studies Community
Do you know a superhero in social studies education? NCSS recognizes the best in social studies education through awards honoring exceptional classroom teachers at every level, innovative researchers, and members whose service and contributions are shaping the future of the field. Nominate yourself or a colleague before our portal closes on June 30.
Learn, Lead, and Explore D.C. this July
The NCSS Summer Leadership institute is a focused, two-and-a-half-day experience designed for social studies educators who are ready to make a lasting impact in their schools and states. Facilitated by incoming NCSS President Joe Schmidt and Executive Director Kelly McFarland Stratman, this event will feature:
Collaborative discussions on resource sharing, local partnerships, and State Council leadership strategies;
A private tour of the rotunda of the National Archives and Records Administration;
A multi-faith panel exploring inclusive approaches to religious literacy in the context of state-level standards and First Amendment protections;
Hill Day advocacy meetings with members of Congress, with guidance and training from iCivics. Separate registration required here.
Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to grow your leadership capacity while connecting with peers committed to advancing social studies education.
Join thousands of educators and museum leaders in D.C. or virtually at the free Smithsonian National Education Summit: “Together We Thrive: Towards a More Perfect Union.”
With 40+ sessions led by Smithsonian educators, the free multi-day event will unite leading voices exploring themes tied to our nation’s 250th anniversary. Learn more and register here.
Free lilyPD courses for educators through July 31
lilyPD: Professional Development powered by William & Mary is an online platform for K–12 educators offering skills-based microcourses that are centered in social studies education. Developed through W&M’s Strategic Cultural Partnerships office, lilyPD courses are designed by teachers, for teachers, in collaboration with W&M faculty, museum professionals, and subject-matter experts nationwide. Each course blends research, storytelling, and classroom experience to connect learning science with teaching practice. Teachers earn professional development completion certificates for license renewal endorsed by the W&M School of Education.
All lilyPD courses and resources are currently free for educators to access and use through July 31 (after July 31, five lilyPD courses will continue to remain freely available to educators.). Learn more and create a free account today at lilypd.wm.edu.
NEW ISSUE: Journal of International Social Studies
What does it mean to truly understand history through someone else's eyes? The latest issue of the Journal of International Social Studies explores historical empathy and perspective-taking — from museums in the U.S., to the Maasai of Kenya, to U.S.-Canada relations.
Take the Project Unicorn Annual School System Data Survey
Project Unicorn is launching their 6th Annual School System Data Survey. Whether you’re refining data governance or testing new standards, your input is the pulse the industry needs. Complete the survey here by June 30 to receive:
