The Social Studies Professional | April 7, 2026 | No. 467
NCSS President Dr. Tina M. Ellsworth, Ph.D., announces that registration is now open for the 2026 Summer Leadership Institute, updates on the fiscal year budgets appropriations process, and shares some exciting news about how NCSS is working to elevate our collective voice and ensure we have a seat at key conversations.
Students Can Win $10,000 with the Past is Prologue Contest
The American Battle Monuments Foundation (ABMF) Past Is Prologue Essay Contest invites students ages 11–18 to investigate pivotal moments in American military history and analyze how these historical events continue to influence civic ideals, international alliances, and democratic values today.
Scholarship awards include $10,000 for 1st place, $5,000 for 2nd place, and $2,500 for 3rd place, with a submission deadline of May 3, 2026, at 10:00 PM MDT. Find the full essay requirements and application information here.
Two-Day Summer Virtual Conference Focusing on America250
The 2026 NCSS Summer Virtual Conference invites social studies educators to explore how pivotal events—from the founding of America to the present—can be taught in ways that engage students in critical thinking, civic responsibility, and historical understanding. Sub-themes explored include:
Revolution and Founding Ideals Revisited
Resilience in Times of Crisis: Teaching Through 9/11 and Beyond
“Making Corruption History” High School Essay Contest
At a time when civic literacy and ethical leadership are more important than ever, the Museum of Political Corruption has launched the 1st Annual National “Making Corruption History” High School Essay Contest, an initiative that invites students to explore deeply the meaning of integrity, accountability, and ethical governance. High School students can learn more and apply here by May 15, 2026.
Teaching about Iran in the Social Studies Classroom
This curated collection from the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) provides social studies educators with high-quality, classroom-ready resources for teaching about Iran and current global events. Explore the collection.
The Climate Initiative Learning Lab
Transform your classroom with free, hands-on climate education modules and expert support from the Climate Initiative (TCI) Learning Lab Hub for Educators. All Learning Lab modules adhere to 21st Century Skills & NGSS and Cross Cutting Concepts as well as align with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
TCI is a non-partisan, solutions-based organization providing resources for local, tangible solutions to a global challenge.
