POSTCARDS FROM THE FRONT of our fields . With regard to civics curriculum , we found the resources from Facing History and Ourselves , iCivics , and the News Literacy Project particularly useful . Unfortunately , COVID restrictions are likely to continue into next year and confine our pilot course to campus . This limitation is a real disappointment , for civics learning is most profound when the knowledge and skills are applied and used in the real world .
Finally , I am optimistic about Foundations because of the institutional support behind it . The sections will be team-taught and the Head of School , Assistant Head of School , Dean of Students , and Head of Athletics have signed on for the pilot . By joining with the offices of DEI , Global Education , and the CCCE , they are sending a strong message to students and parents that this course is an exciting new opportunity and a valuable use of everyone ’ s time . In addition to team teaching , the course intentionally differs from the usual academic experience in that there is no homework , no tests , and no official grades .
“ We will be explicit : in Foundations , they are learning skills and knowledge that are of immediate use in daily life in a multicultural democracy .”
A pass / fail requirement is intended to keep the guardrails on , but the goal is to offer an experience ( 45 minutes twice a week ) that doesn ’ t feel like an academic class . As we design activities and discussion questions , we are prioritizing the students ’ view of what would feel relevant and engaging . We will be explicit : in Foundations , they are learning skills and knowledge that are of immediate use in daily life in a multi-cultural democracy . In 2021-22 , the course will run twice and we will learn a tremendous amount from the student feedback ; we ’ ll have to wait to hear whether they are buying what we are selling !
2 . Civics Hits Us Where We Live : Our Schedules
As a civics program director , my message to the students and adults in my school community is that civic participation must be added back into American life . Democracy only works when citizens believe in it and actively work to sustain it . Above all , that work demands time . Getting to know your neighbors , consistently reading the news of those who live beyond your neighborhood , showing up to help and work with others , understanding our laws well enough to support or challenge them : it all takes time . Time is just what over-scheduled students and their hard-working parents don ’ t have . A few adults may thank you for re-asserting the value of civic participation — may even be relieved to hear it , but be aware that others may feel judged or demoralized by it . Jam-
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