The Social Studies Professional | July 7, 2026 | No. 473

"As someone who lives Social Studies 365 days a year, I am incredibly energized by the work our members are doing across the country."

As we continue to welcome America's 250th birthday, please welcome our incoming NCSS President Joe Schmidt, who thanks you for everything you do for your classroom and community.  

The NCSS Summer Leadership institute (SLI) 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. This year's event is facilitated by incoming NCSS President Joe Schmidt and Executive Director Kelly McFarland Stratman, and will feature an optional Hill Day, consisting of advocacy meetings with members of Congress, with guidance and training from iCivics. Separate registration required here.

SLI is an unparalleled opportunity to grow your leadership capacity while connecting with peers committed to advancing social studies education.

Registration closes soon!

NCGE's Higher Education Distinguished Teaching Award Nominations and two letters of recommendation are due in by July 20! We depend on our members to nominate colleagues, mentors, and teacher-scholars who they have observed to be doing exemplary work to benefit their students. Make a nomination today and let us join you in celebrating a distinguished educator.

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. 

lilyPD: Professional Development is a free online platform offering social studies-focused microcourses for K–12 educators designed by teachers in collaboration with William & Mary. These courses provide practical, research-based learning and professional development certificates for license renewal

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.).

Looking for actionable strategies to support students with disabilities and diverse learning needs?

The Educating All Learners Alliance has built a video resource hub dedicated to closing the gap for learners with disabilities. From tech tips to inclusive pedagogy, we're sharing the tools you need to ensure every learner thrives. View now.

➭ Your Next Step is Waiting in the NCSS Career Center.

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The Social Studies Professional — known as TSSP — is the official

e-newsletter of National Council for the Social Studies and is published twice a month.

You are receiving this email as one of your NCSS membership benefits. 
To learn more about TSSP, visit http://www.socialstudies.org/publications/tssp.

Editor:

Kristian Beck, Digital Marketing Manager

Maribell Abeja-DeVitto, Advertising Representative, MAbejaDeVitto@smithbucklin.com

Copyright © 2026 National Council for the Social Studies, All rights reserved.