Institute Overview

Join teachers from across the country and constitutional scholars from across the philosophical spectrum for a weeklong Summer Teacher Institute. exploring the First Amendment at the National Constitution Center, in Philadelphia, from July 19 – 24.

During the Institute educators work with content experts to deepen their knowledge of the history and modern understandings of the First Amendment through interpretation of the U.S. Constitution. With master teachers and the education team from the National Constitution Center, participants discover and develop innovative, nonpartisan ways to make the content relevant to their students.  

The Institute capitalizes on the Center's wealth of historical, constitutional, and cultural resources to demonstrate the ways understandings of the First Amendment have defined and continue to define America’s constitutional identity. Educators will leave with new content knowledge, teaching tools, classroom-ready resources, and skills for improving constitutional literacy.

Funding is available to cover a significant portion of lodging and some travel expenses. Reading materials, teaching resources, two dinners, and light refreshments throughout the week are included. There is no fee to attend the Institute; but, a successful application is required.

The weeklong Institute includes documentation to report 30 hours of professional development.

The program begins Sunday evening and ends Friday afternoon. The schedule includes activities and events offering Institute participants opportunities to explore Philadelphia’s history and culture.

Applications are being accepted through Friday, December 20, 2019. All applicants will be notified by Friday, January 17, 2020, regarding acceptance to the Institute.

Average time to complete this application is 15 minutes.

Questions, comments, concerns:  Please e-mail Education@ConstitutionCenter.org.

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