The Social Studies Professional | January 20, 2026 | No. 462
"At NCSS, Social Studies 365 means that every day we are committed to teaching social studies, supporting social studies teachers, looking for ways to innovate our practices, advocating for social studies, celebrating and honoring social studies teachers and building a community of inspired professionals."
NCSS Executive Director Kelly McFarland Stratman discusses this year's conference theme and how it ties into the the mission of NCSS.
Present a Session at the 106th NCSS Annual Conference
The call for proposals is now open for the 106th NCSS Annual Conference! The conference will take place December 4-6, 2026 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago in Chicago, IL.
This year, our conference planning committee has crafted a vision centered on a theme that defines the heartbeat of our profession: Social Studies 365.
Proposals are due February 25, 2026 at 11:59 HST.
Presidential 1776 Award Program for High School Students
As part of the U.S. Department of Education’s initiatives to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, Secretary Linda McMahon, in partnership with the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation and EBSCOed, has announced the launch of the Presidential 1776 Award, a nationwide competition recognizing exceptional student knowledge of our nation’s founding. Three high school winners will receive scholarships totaling $250,000, with the national finals to be held in Washington, D.C. in June 2026.
Social Entrepreneurship: How Students Turn Passion Into Action
Learn how to help your students turn passion into action! This free January 27th webinar will provide an overview of the upcoming national NCSS Online Social Entrepreneurship Institute, along with free, classroom-ready resources, information on the Online Civic & Social Innovation Pitch Challenge, and optional opportunities to connect with humanitarian sites around the world. Register now.
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.
Global Citizenship Prize for High School and College Students
The Abdelkader Education Project has launched the 2026 Abdelkader Global Citizenship Prize!
Students will research Emir Abdelkader’s leadership style. They will identify how Abdelkader’s approach can address challenges in their own communities today. Using these insights, they will write a hypothetical open letter to a local educator, official, or other leader recommending actions to strengthen civic life. They will then create a brief video that expresses the core idea of their letter. Details can be found here. All students enrolled at high schools (grades 9-12) or colleges in the United States, including exchange students, may compete. Students must identify a mentor/advisor.
2026 Scholarship Awards
High School: First – $1,000 | Second – $750 | Third – $500
College: First – $1,500 | Second – $1,000 | Third – $750
Winners will be featured in publications and social media, and be invited to participate in other opportunities.
