Facing History's "Choosing to Participate" Online Workshop

From: Facing History and Ourselves [mailto:Facing_History_and_Ourselves@mail.vresp.com]
Subject: Join Us! Online Workshop: Choosing to Participate

Register Now for Facing History and Ourselves'

Choosing to Participate

FREE Online Workshop

You are invited to join Facing History and Ourselves' free Choosing to Participate online workshop (October 7 - 15) designed to introduce the resources and interactive features of Facing History's Choosing to Participate website. If you register for the online workshop today, we will send you a link to the redesigned website as soon as it launches—with many exciting new features!

Choosing to Participate: Facing History and Ourselves is a civic and educational initiative that seeks to be a catalyst for conversation about the importance of civic participation. The initiative encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to consider the choices they face in their lives, to think critically about issues of race and prejudice, and to understand that their decisions and actions matter to themselves, their communities, and future generations.

The website will present the stories of four individuals and communities from contemporary history whose stories illustrate the courage, initiative, and compassion that are needed to protect democracy and human rights. The website will also offer a variety of interactive tools and experiences that allow students to explore the themes of civic responsibility and democracy. Using state-of-the-art interactive graphics, audio, and video clips, the site allows young people to share their own responses about participation. The site can be used on its own, in your classroom, and/or to prepare or debrief a visit to the multimedia, interactive exhibition that is the centerpiece of the Choosing to Participate initiative. The exhibition will be on display in Cleveland, Ohio between October 2009 and February 2010.

Through facilitated online activities, educators participating in the online workshop will learn a variety of ways they can use this website with their students. The workshop will allow you to receive feedback, share lesson ideas and resources, and connect with other educators from around the globe.

This online workshop will be facilitated by Facing History staff who are experienced middle and high school educators. The format will consist of several ongoing online conversations and a guided investigation of the website. All educators are invited regardless of their computer use skill level.

By registering for this workshop, you are committing to logging on to the site and participating in the online discussion at least three times, for a time commitment of two-to-four hours during the duration of the online workshop.

APPLY TODAY TO OUR ONLINE WORKSHOP!!

Please contact Tanya at Tanya_Lubicz-Nawrocka@facing.org with any questions and forward this email to your friends and colleagues who may be interested in Facing History's "Choosing to Participate" online workshop.

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LegiSchool Project Programs and Contests

From: Herczog_Michelle Herczog_Michelle@lacoe.edu
Subject: LegiSchool Project Programs and Contests

The LegiSchool Project
Programs and Annual Contests

PSA Video Contest
What Would $1,000 Do For Your School?
The LegiSchool Project is currently seeking entries for their annual Public Service Announcement (PSA) Video Contest: What Would $1,000 Do For Your School? In the age of budget cuts, deficits, and spending caps, every little bit counts and $1,000 could go a long way toward improving your school. They invite high school students throughout California to break out their video cameras and create a 60-second PSA video showcasing what $1,000 would do for their school. One video from the individual category and one video from the class/club category will be selected as official prize-winning entries and the $1,000 prize money will be awarded directly to your school for the project highlighted in the video.
Entries must be postmarked by Friday, October 16, 2009.
Please see the attached announcement for details and share it with your students.
Additional flyers and/or entry forms are available at:
http://www.csus.edu/legischool

14th Annual Essay Contest
The Future of Education in California
All California students have been impacted in some way by the state's budget crisis and the direct effect it's had on education. Whether it is larger class sizes, reduced extracurricular activities or ill-maintained facilities,every school has its own story. So the question remains: where do California schools go from here? Students are asked to share their thoughts and views of the state's educational system, and explore what's working in California's schools and what they think the future holds for future students. Ten winning essayists will be invited to spend a day in Sacramento at LegiSchool's 14th Annual Student Legislative Summit, April 8, 2010, where the highlight of the day is the Student-Run Press Conference. Look for essay contest details and deadlines on our website in November, at:

www.csus.edu/legischool

Postmark deadline is Friday, January 22, 2010.


Photo Contest
California Through My Eyes
How do you envision California? What represents California to you? Poverty? Wealth? Technology? Farms? Water? Mountains? Towns? People? Cities? Cars? Hiking Trails? Family? Community? Landscapes? These are just some of the images that students are invited to photograph for LegiSchool’s annual photo contest. The photo can be of a person, place or anything–big or small. The FIRST PLACE winner will receive $100 and four runners-up will receive $50 each. Look for complete details in January.
Postmark deadline is Friday, May 7, 2010.

FREE State Government Curriculum Materials
Offered by The LegiSchool Project and The California Channel
Each DVD is accompanied by a Video Viewing Guide, which includes two pages of critical-thinking exercises and pertinent vocabulary for teachers to use as an assignment for students.

Understanding California’s Budget Process
With a budget of over $110 billion dollars, California ranks among the top 10 economies in the world! Imagine the work that goes into preparing a budget of this magnitude…The entire process takes roughly one year. This 8-minute video examines California’s budget process throughthe eyes of a family trying to balance their own budget. Emphasis is placed on the many players involved in the process, the constitutional constraints that dictate how the money is spent and the compromise needed to pass the budget with a 2/3 majority in the Legislature.

The Voting Process: YOU Have the Power!
This energetic 8-minute video gives students a step-by-step look at procedures for voting in California. The goal of the video is to give young, first-time voters the knowledge and confidence to become involved in our most cherished constitutional right, the democratic process. Registration, absentee ballots, resources (websites, phone numbers, etc.) and demonstrations of the three prevalent forms of voting systems in our state are given a thorough treatment.

The Initiative Process
This 8-minute video takes a step-by-step look at the initiative process and provides a strong message of civic involvement and personal empowerment. Daylight savings time and the banning of nuclear power plants are just two of the examples provided that illustrate the power of this important political tool of the people. Thomas Jefferson stated that “there is no safer depository of the ultimate power of society but the people themselves”—a frank recognition of the important role the initiative process plays in making law and placing the public in power to set this state's political agenda.

Checks & Balances: The Three Branches of State Government
This 10-minute video is geared toward helping students learn more about how our state legislative process works. The main premise for the lesson is that, as in the federal government, the framers of our state’s constitution wanted to be sure that no one branch of government would have too much power, so they divided the powers of the government into three equal branches.

How a Bill Becomes Law
Produced by the California Channel, this 10-minute video uses AB 2268, the Bicycle Helmet Law, to describe how a bill becomes law in California. Ideal for high school students, the video introduces concepts such as how a bill is authored, the process of first, second, and third readings, and how legislation is assigned to various committees within the Legislature.

State Government for Beginners Handout Binder
Looking for good, basic handouts about state government and the legislative process? Then this binder is for you!
Easy-to-duplicate handouts include:
• Legislative terminology
• A diagram and step-by-step description of the legislative process
• A sample bill with instructions on how to read legislation
• Voter registration and elections information
• Useful state government and political websites and much more!

To request any of these materials, please complete the enclosed order form.

The LegiSchool Project is a civic education collaboration between California State University, Sacramento and the State Legislature, administered by the Center for California Studies. LegiSchool’s mission is to engage young people in matters of public policy and state government by creating opportunities for students and state leaders to meet and share ideas on issues affecting Californians and by developing free high-quality government-oriented curriculum materials for California educators to enhance and help improve the quality of state government-related curriculum in our schools. For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact: Megan Thorall thorall@csus.edu (916) 278-7563.

Civics Publishing Opportunity: NCSS Gallery of Writing

From: Herczog_Michelle Herczog_Michelle@lacoe.edu
Subject: NCSS Gallery of Writing: Citizenship in the 21st Century!

Opportunity to Publish in the

National Council for the Social Studies Gallery of Writing!

NCSS Gallery Theme: Citizenship in the 21st Century

The National Council for the Social Studies is a partner in the National Gallery of Writing, an online exhibition of writing hosted by the National Council of Teachers of English.

Gallery URL: http://galleryofwriting.org/galleries/national_council_for_the_social_studies_gallery

What does an effective citizen do? Why are effective citizens necessary in a participatory democracy? What should students learn about history, civics, economics and/or geography in order to be prepared for their roles as citizens? What are the roles of parents, teachers and others in preparing effective citizens? What important person in your life—parent, friend, sibling, teacher or other role model—has contributed substantively to your understanding of citizenship, and how? What cases, examples, or instances of effective citizenship have you observed, participated in and/or supported? Send us your ideas, stories, pictures, or other responses.

Submit your writing today!

Each person can submit one piece of writing that is important to them (be it a letter, digital composition, video, or other format.) It just takes a few minutes to upload your submission.

The pieces will be unveiled on October 20, 2009 as part of The National Day on Writing, a nationwide celebration highlighting the variety and importance of writing in daily life.

Five Freedoms Newsletter - March 2009

From: Herczog_Michelle <Herczog_Michelle@lacoe.edu>


Degrees of Freedom
The Monthly Newsletter of the Five Freedoms Project
March 2009

Attached is the March 2009 edition of Degrees of Freedom, the monthly newsletter of the Five Freedoms Project. This issue's theme focuses on "Citizenship, Participation and Democracy," sharing some ideas and resources for engaging participation. You'll find the latest You Be The Judge case, read about a book resource that explores the classic roots of democracy, and meet a Network member who models participation in democratic schooling practices. Enjoy!

If you haven't done so, please visit www.fivefreedoms.org , the companion site to our online network, filled with resources and ideas to support your efforts to empower our young people with voice and visibility. If you have ideas or suggestions for The Five Freedoms Project and/or the Network, please drop me a line at kcarter@fivefreedoms.org.

And please continue to help us spread the word to all friends and colleagues you think would benefit from joining our growing - and increasingly international - community of people committed to First Amendment freedoms, democratic schools, and the idea that all children deserve to be seen and heard.

For more information,
please contact:
Kim Carter
Five Freedoms Project
One Nation. Many Voices.
kcarter@fivefreedoms.org
www.fivefreedoms.org

California On My Honor Teacher Institute

From: Herczog_Michelle <Herczog_Michelle@lacoe.edu>


California on My Honor:
Civics Institute for K-12 Teachers

Southern California Institute: San Diego
June 29 – July 2, 2009

Northern California Institute: San Francisco
July 14 – 17, 2009

Joint One-Day Follow-up on October 23, 2009 in San Francisco

The Administrative Office of the Courts is seeking applications from
K-12 teachers for a fully funded and stipended professional
development opportunity to, "Participate this summer in an intensive
civics institute focused on the judicial branch of government with
other K-12 teachers, college professors, judges, and attorneys. Learn
new and exciting ways to bring your civics-related social science
program to life through the use of simulations, the visual and
performing arts, and language arts."

More information can be found in the attached file or at
http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/reference/documents/letterandapp.pdf

Deadline extended for northern California teachers: INQUIRE NOW!!

Project Citizen CA Summer Institute

From: Herczog_Michelle <Herczog_Michelle@lacoe.edu>

Project Citizen California Summer Institute
June 14 - 19, 2009
Sacramento, California

Directed by the Center for Civic Education and funded by the California Department of Education and by the U.S. Department of Education under the Education for Democracy Act approved by the U.S. Congress

A unique opportunity for teachers, grades 4-12 and community youth group leaders to take part in a professional development institute featuring We the People: Project Citizen. The materials are designed to foster active participation in a process-oriented curriculum that teaches students how to monitor and influence public policy in their communities.

Perfect for service-learning and afterschool programs!

Participants chosen to attend will receive AT NO COST:

Reimbursement of up to $250 for transportation costs or mileage to and from the institute
· Lodging and meals

· A set of Project Citizen texts and professional materials

DEADLINE TO APPLY: APRIL 15, 2009

More information, brochure and registration form
can be found at
www.cawtp.com

For additional information,
please contact:
Dee Morgan
(916) 965-7172
dee.morgan@comcast.net
or
Kari Coppinger
(805) 426-5397
coppinger@civiced.org

Page Program at U.S. House of Representatives

From: Awele [mailto:amakeba@earthlink.net]


Do you know anyone who is 16 years old with a G.P.A. of 3.0?

This email is directed to those of you who know someone who is 16 years old and has a 3.0 GPA who might be interested in serving during the Obama Administration as a page.

To Counselors and Educators:

Please share this information with friends, family and potential US House of Representatives Page candidates. The honor of serving as a page during the Obama administration will be an invaluable experience. Help identify students to participate in this enlightening educational opportunity.

Page Program , U.S. House of Representatives

http://pageprogram.house.gov/

Civic Education in History-Social Studies Framework Revision

From: crf@crf-usa.org [mailto:crf@crf-usa.org]

On Feb. 5, the California Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools presented a white paper on Civic Education Policy at the first meeting of the California Department of Education's History-Social Science Framework Revision Committee Meeting. We wanted you to see a copy of the paper and extend a special thanks to Cricket Kidwell for her authorship. In addition to our presentation, the Hon. Ronald B. Robie, Associate Justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District and State Senator Wyland each also presented testimony on the importance of including civic education in the framework.

As the CA History-Social Science Framework includes course descriptions for each grade level and other resources for teaching K-12 History-Social Science in our state, we believe this is an important opportunity for the California Civic Mission of Schools Campaign to ensure that civic education and the promising practices are included in a thorough and meaningful way. As the process continues throughout the year, we will keep you informed of our progress and may call upon our coalition members to make public comments at the Revision Committee meetings to keep the committee focused on civic education.

Click here to view the white paper: http://www.cms-ca.org/Civic_Educ_Calif_Policy_Recommendations.pdf

Debbie Genzer
Senior Program Director
Educating for Democracy: California Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools
Constitutional Rights Foundation
601 S. Kingsley Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90005
(415) 383-3022 (Ph)
(415) 383-4780 (FAX)
www.crf-usa.org
www.cms-ca.org

Constitutional Rights Foundation

From: Constitutional Rights Foundation [mailto:crf@crf-usa.org]


Dear Friend of CRF,

Through its many and varied programs, CRF helps young people become informed, engaged and involved citizens of their communities and nation. We give them opportunities to experience how the law and the government work and why democracy matters.

In these challenging times, CRF is a prescription for a healthier democracy.

This year:

• Young people have had their lives changed through our innovative Expanding Horizons Internship program.


• Teachers all across the country have used our publications to enrich the work in their classrooms.


• Tens of thousands of young people have had transformational experiences in our Mock Trial competitions.


• We have helped teachers sharpen their skills and approaches to teaching young people what it means to be citizens of this remarkable democracy.


• The richness of history has been experienced by tens of thousands of students who researched and expressed their discoveries through our History Day competition.


• Students in the U.S, have been connected to their peers in Eastern Europe to engage in constructive dialogue about the meaning of democracy.

Your support and interest have been a vital part of this process, and we thank you for making it possible for CRF to do its work.

If you have not seen our new website, we invite you to explore it at www.crf-usa.org.

Best wishes,

Jonathan Estrin, President
Constitutional Rights Foundation

Civic Education Program - Meetings in the Bay Area Feb. 10-12

From: Lindsay Greenberg [mailto:lgreenberg@closeup.org]


Dear American History Educators,

Given what an exciting year it is in DC, I thought I would reach out to you to see if you might like to start a Close Up program for middle school or high school students in your school district. As you may already know, the Close Up Foundation encourages responsible participation in the democratic process through Washington D.C. based programs for students and teachers. Our non-partisan, experiential curriculum brings classroom lessons to life by taking students behind the scene and giving students the opportunity to witness government in action! Teachers and adults can travel for free to D.C. with their students, as well as take part in a professional development program, and earn Graduate Credits or Continuing Education Units.

I am based in Washington DC but I will be in the bay area next week, February 10-12, and I would love to meet with you or any teachers/counselors/administrators in your district who might like to learn more about our civic education programs for American history/government teachers and students.

In case you haven’t heard about us, the Close Up middle school program (designed for 6, 7, 8th graders) is an extremely well-structured, hands-on, experiential academic program that revolves around the central question: “What can we learn from history to help us become effective citizens today?” We have well-trained program instructors who use DC as a classroom to help middle school students understand the monuments, memorials, and historic government sites in the context of American history. In the evenings the students participate in a variety of workshops, and at the end of the week each group does a culminating project, called a “Democracy Display.” We also have a separate teacher’s program with many exciting electives, workshops and the opportunity to earn up to three professional development credits.

The Close Up high school program (designed for 9-12th graders) has a public policy focus and encourages students from around the country to engage with each other on key domestic issues. In addition to exploring the traditional DC monuments, memorials and museums, the high school students have an organized Capitol Hill Day where they have 2-3 meetings with their representatives. At night students participate in a mock congress, a domestic issues debate, and can attend a show at the Kennedy Center. Students can also earn one general education college credit from the University of Virginia for participating on our program and writing a 4-6 page paper on a domestic policy issue upon completion of the program. We also offer a separate teacher’s program with many exciting electives, workshops and the opportunity to earn up to three professional development credits.

I am attaching this year’s high school and middle school brochures. If you are interested, I would love to set up a time to speak with you further – you can reach me at 703-706-3609, or by email at .

Thanks,

Lindsay
Lindsay Greenberg
800 CLOSE UP (256-7387) ext. 609
917-647-0438 (cell)
lgreenberg@closeup.org
Account Manager
Close Up Foundation

FREE Project Citizen Conference for Title 1 and Afterschool Teachers

From: Michelle Herczog [Herczog_Michelle@lacoe.edu]

The Los Angeles County Office of Education
is proud to announce

Project Citizen Civic Education Conference
For Title 1 Educators and Afterschool Teachers
in California Middle and High Schools

March 6 – 8, 2009
at the
California Council for the Social Studies Annual Conference
Ontario Marriott Hotel

The California Council for the Social Studies Diversity and Social Justice Committee and Project Citizen are proud to offer professional development designed to help teachers put student work into action. Research by Joe Kahne and Ellen Middaugh highlights a “Civic Opportunity Gap” disproportionately affecting low income communities. Learn how to connect current events to enduring themes in History through projects designed to engage all students in the democratic process. Teacher will gain an understanding of service-learning and civic education as methods for engaging students in standards-based projects that make a difference to the communities in which they live while developing the skills needed to close the Achievement Gap.

Conference available at NO COST includes:

Hotel stay at the Ontario Marriot March 5th, 6th and 7th 2009 (A block of single occupancy rooms is pre-booked for participants)
· Comprehensive Project Citizen training March 6th-8th 2009

· California Council for the Social Studies 1 year membership

· Access to keynote speakers at the California Council for the Social Studies (CCSS) Annual Conference: Sam Chaltain, Peter Irons, and Steven Cunha

· Ongoing support from Project Citizen coordinators

· A class set of Project Citizen text books

· Reimbursement to your school/district/program for your substitute coverage on Friday, March 6th.


Application Deadline: February 6, 2009

More information and application can be found in the attached file.

Additional information can be found at
http://groups.google.com/group/socialjusticeccss/web/project-citizen

or by contacting:
Nate Ivy
Service-Learning Regional Lead
Alameda County Office of Education
(510) 670-4283
nivy@acoe.org

December CISC History-SS Announcements

From: Gary Dei Rossi [mailto:gdeirossi@sjcoe.net]

This is the CISC History-Social Science report for December 2008.

The LegiSchool Project's Annual Essay Contest: Rules of the Road: Teen Cell Phone Ban (see attachment).

We are currently seeking entries for LegiSchool’s annual essay contest, Rules of the Road: Teen Cell Phone Ban. The contest is open to eleventh and twelfth grade students in California high schools. Ten essayists will be selected to win round trip travel to Sacramento to participate in LegiSchool’s 13th Annual Student Legislative Summit, on April 2, 2009. At the Student Legislative Summit, winners will participate in a Student-Run Press Conference at the State Capitol with members of the Capitol Press Corps and legislative staff. Entries must be postmarked by Friday, January 23, 2009. Please see the attached announcement for details and share it with your students. For more information or additional fliers please visit our website at: http://www.csus.edu/legischool.
The LegiSchool Project is a civic education collaboration between California State University, Sacramento and the State Legislature, administered by the Center for California Studies. LegiSchool’s mission is to engage young people in matters of public policy and state government by creating opportunities for students and state leaders to meet and share ideas on issues affecting Californians and by developing free high-quality government-oriented curriculum materials for California educators to enhance and help improve the quality of state government-related curriculum in our schools. For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact me at thorall@saclink.csus.edu or (916) 278-7563.
Megan Thorall LegiSchool Coordinator Center for California Studies California State University, Sacramento


2009 Horace Mann-Abraham Lincoln Fellowships (see attachments).
This is a wonderful opportunity for any teacher (K-12) to attend a five day institute in June or July at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois. The fellowship includes round trip transportation, lodging and most meals. The deadline to apply is Feb. 12, 2009. Here is the link for those that wish to apply: https://www.horacemann.com/alf/. If there are any questions please give call Jacob Gunter, Product Specialist-- office 209-472-3640 cell 209-481-7574.

November CDE Newsletter (see attachment).
From Kristen Cruz at CDE.

The US and The World Education Act (HR 7063)(see attachment).
On September 25, 2008, Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez introduced the US and the World Education Act that will help prepare students for success in a globally connected world. The legislation would establish educational grants to help prepare America's youth for competition in a global marketplace emphasizing 21st Century Skills. The groundbreaking legislation will provide opportunities for teachers to be trained in standards based international education professional development, and allow districts to support partnerships with heritage language schools and international studies programs to supplement academic and global literacy. A copy of the Bill is attached. For more information, please see www.usandtheworld.org

Civic Mission of Schools Update: OpEd Blitz Across the Nation Promotes Civic Education for America’s Youth
The recent presidential election has energized Americans, and particularly young people, to become actively engaged citizens by voting, campaigning, debating, and impacting public policy at local, state, and national levels of our democracy. The Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, led by Executive Director Ted McConnell, has led a nationwide media blitz to continue the momentum for promoting civic education in our schools. (This was published by Michelle Herczog from LACOE.)

"School Administrator Magazine" The October issue, published by Coalition member the American Association of School Administrators, was dedicated to the civic mission of schools, with powerful articles by Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, Carl Glickman, Charles Haynes, Terry Pickeral, Peter Levine, Matt Leighninger and Shelley Berman. To view these great articles go to http://www.aasa.org/sa, look at 'back issues', and click on the October 2008 issue.

"Public School Insights," First Alliance Newsletter: Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on Turning Students into Citizens. Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor offers ideas for reinvigorating civics education in American public schools. Among her recommendations: more time for civics, better civics curriculum and more dynamic teaching. Read more...
http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=8484&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

"Believe in What You Teach": An Interview with Award-Winning Civics Teacher Cheryl Cook-Kallio
Cheryl Cook-Kallio puts her money where her mouth is. After decades of teaching civics in American public schools, she won a seat on the Pleasanton, California City Council. She recently told us about her innovative, hands-on approach to civic education. Read more... http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=23506&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

Closing the "Civic Achievement Gap": A Conversation with Harvard Researcher Meira Levinson
Meira Levinson warns of a civic achievement gap that is every bit as troubling as academic achievement gaps. Poor students and students of color lag behind their peers in civic knowledge and engagement. Even worse, they are far less likely to believe they can make a difference through civic action. Levinson spoke with us about these gaps--and what schools can do to narrow them. Read more... http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=23549&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

Tackling the "Empowerment Gap": An Interview with Award-Winning Superintendent Shelley Berman
As the celebrated superintendent of Hudson, Massachusetts schools, Dr. Sheldon Berman distinguished himself as one of the nation's leading champions of civic education. Since coming to Louisville, Kentucky a year ago, Berman has maintained his passionate commitment to civics. He recently spoke with us about his work in Jefferson County Public Schools. Read more... http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=23575&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Exhibition, The California Museum at 1020 O St. reports having been selected by the Library of Congress as the first of five institutions to host the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Exhibition that will be travelling through the states next year. The exhibit celebrating our sixteenth president's 200th birthday will be in Sacramento from June24 to Aug. 24 for its only stop west of The Rockies. Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation will serve as the centerpiece of the 3500 square-foot exhibit. Some less heralded historical items will be on display as well, such as the contents of his pockets the night he was assassinated. Along with Sacramento, the exhibit stops in Chicago, Indianapolis, Atlanta and Omaha. For more information please contact: Ashley Robinson 916-651-3030.

Gilder Lehrman Collection: Featured document: The Gettysburg Address.

145 years ago, on November 19, 1863, four months after the Battle of Gettysburg, a ceremony was held to dedicate a cemetery for the Union dead. President Lincoln had been invited to make a "few appropriate remarks" at the cemetery's consecration. Drawing upon the biblical concepts of suffering, consecration, and resurrection, he described the war as a momentous chapter in the global struggle for self-government, liberty, and equality. To examine an early printing of this address from the Gilder Lehrman Collection, click here: http://www.gilderlehrman.org/collection/docs_current.html

Lincoln Resources-- Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth this February 2009 with resources from the Gilder Lehrman Collection. Resources include:

• The new 2009 Lincoln calendar, featuring images of people and events in the President’s life and a historical fact about Lincoln for every day of the year.


• Document booklets, such as Wilberforce, Lincoln, and the Abolition of Slavery.


• Posters featuring photographs of Lincoln as well as some of his most famous documents.


• Abraham Lincoln: History in a Box, which includes a resource book and CD of documents, artwork, maps, study questions, posters, and an interactive DVD.

All Gilder Lehrman resources can be found in the History Shop: http://www.gilderlehrmanstore.org

You can also sign up to receive the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission's free classroom poster. The front side, suitable for classroom display, is a portrait of Lincoln, while the reverse contains resources for educators, offering suggestions for incorporating Lincoln's legacy into the classroom. To request this poster, please call (202) 707-6998 or visit the "For Teachers" page on the Bicentennial Commission's website: http://www.abrahamlincoln200.org

John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest for High School Students--The annual John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest invites high school students from across the nation to write an original essay about an elected official who has demonstrated political courage. The contest is a companion program of the Profile in Courage Award, named for President Kennedy’s 1957Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Profiles in Courage, which recounts the stories of eight senators, the obstacles they faced, and the special valor they demonstrated despite the risks.

Winning essayists will receive awards totaling up to $8,500. The first-place winner will be invited to accept the award at the Profile in Courage Award Ceremony hosted each May by Caroline Kennedy and Senator Edward M. Kennedy at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston. To encourage student leadership and civic engagement, the nominating teacher of the first-place winner will receive a John F. Kennedy Public Service Grant for $500.

The John F. Kennedy Library Foundation gratefully acknowledges Fidelity Investments for their generous support of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest. For more information, please visit
here.

Bicentennial of Lincoln's Birth--February 12, 2009 will mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln. The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission was created following the passage of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission Act in 2000. The Commissioners are focused on informing the public about the impact Abraham Lincoln had on the development of our nation and finding the best possible ways to honor his accomplishments.

For free classroom resources and more information please visit: http://www.lincolnbicentennial.gov/


Gary F. Dei Rossi, CISC History-Social Science Committee Co-Chair

Civic Mission of Schools OpEd pieces

From: Michelle Herczog, LA County Office of Education

Civic Mission of Schools Update:
OpEd Blitz Across the Nation Promotes Civic Education for America’s Youth

The recent presidential election has energized Americans, and particularly young people, to become actively engaged citizens by voting, campaigning, debating, and impacting public policy at local, state, and national levels of our democracy. The Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, led by Executive Director Ted McConnell, has led a nationwide media blitz to continue the momentum for promoting civic education in our schools.

Please read the articles listed below and the ones attached. Share them with your colleagues, State Legislators, the California Department of Education, the California State Board of Education, your local school board, and front line administrators and teachers to restore the civic mission of every school in the nation!

"School Administrator Magazine"
The October issue, published by Coalition member the American Association of School Administrators, was dedicated to the civic mission of schools, with powerful articles by Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, Carl Glickman, Charles Haynes, Terry Pickeral, Peter Levine, Matt Leighninger and Shelley Berman. To view these great articles go to http://www.aasa.org/sa, look at 'back issues', and click on the October 2008 issue.

"Public School Insights," First Alliance Newsletter
Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on Turning Students into Citizens
Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor offers ideas for reinvigorating civics education in American public schools. Among her recommendations: more time for civics, better civics curriculum and more dynamic teaching. Read more...
http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=8484&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

"Believe in What You Teach": An Interview with Award-Winning Civics Teacher Cheryl Cook-Kallio
Cheryl Cook-Kallio puts her money where her mouth is. After decades of teaching civics in American public schools, she won a seat on the Pleasanton, California City Council. She recently told us about her innovative, hands-on approach to civic education. Read more... http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=23506&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

Closing the "Civic Achievement Gap": A Conversation with Harvard Researcher Meira Levinson
Meira Levinson warns of a civic achievement gap that is every bit as troubling as academic achievement gaps. Poor students and students of color lag behind their peers in civic knowledge and engagement. Even worse, they are far less likely to believe they can make a difference through civic action. Levinson spoke with us about these gaps--and what schools can do to narrow them. Read more... http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=23549&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

Tackling the "Empowerment Gap": An Interview with Award-Winning Superintendent Shelley Berman
As the celebrated superintendent of Hudson, Massachusetts schools, Dr. Sheldon Berman distinguished himself as one of the nation's leading champions of civic education. Since coming to Louisville, Kentucky a year ago, Berman has maintained his passionate commitment to civics. He recently spoke with us about his work in Jefferson County Public Schools. Read more... http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/?storyId=23575&lk=7332346-7332346-0-34057-cZ-i-IHfvaq50jik-JzF0Dnt6FeruL6n

Civic Youth
CIRCLE website: http://civicyouth.org/ to get Peter Levine & Company's authoritative analysis of the 2008 Youth Vote.

For more information about the Civic Mission of Schools, go to:
http://www.civicmissionofschools.org

November CISC History-SS Report

From: Gary Dei Rossi [mailto:gdeirossi@sjcoe.net]

Welcome to the CISC History-social science report. The attached items include:

*an article by Nat Hentoff concerning the youth vote that appeared in the Sacramento Bee on Oct. 31

*"Not by Votes Alone", an article by Ted McConnell (one of the keynote speakers at last year’s Asilomar Conference) on the importance of civic education

*the CISC history-social science minutes from the Nov. 6th meeting, including…
-History-Social Science Framework Revision Committee meetings
-Supplemental instructional materials for Native Americans
-CDE History-SS newsletter
-CCSS awards applications for excellence in History-SS education
-2009 CCSS conference
-CCSS pre-conference event on Closing the Achievement Gap
-Upcoming 3R’s program events
-Civic education resources
-National service learning standards
-Media and Democracy project
-Five Freedoms Project (a Leadership & Youth Media project)

*the latest CA 3Rs Bulletin on Student Religious Expression in School Assignments

*the CA 3Rs calendar for this year.


Gary F. Dei Rossi

Co-Chair CISC History Social Science Committee

New Civic Lesson Plan

From: Bernard Mauricia [mailto:bmauricia@csusb.edu]

A revised version of 'Civics and Government' will be available in early Spring 2009. There are some great Election and the Economy lesson plans. The newest lesson, 'Can Futures Markets Be More Accurate Than Polls?', is available at:

http://www.ncee.net/civics/

Teachers can visit

http://www.ncee.net/civics/

to download the lesson.

Download a free lesson on voting, civics and economics.

Best,

Troy White
Director of Product Marketing & Sales
National Council on Economic Education
212-730-1791
twhite@ncee.net

ORIAS UPDATE 10-6-08

From: ORIAS [mailto:orias@berkeley.edu]


OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS

1. Manga/Anime Drawing Contest (flyer)

As a kick-off event of the Celebration of Japanese Culture, 2008, the University of the Pacific Library and a few community co-sponsors are once again hosting a statewide Manga/Anime Drawing Contest. The purpose of this contest is to promote cultural understanding and appreciation of this unique form of Japanese pop culture. The theme for this year's contest is “Fantastic Four.” Entries must be received no later than Oct. 24, 2008.

The contest is divided into 4 divisions: Grades K-4, Grades 5-8, Grades 9-12, and the Adult division (college and beyond). A panel of judges will select 6 finalists for each division. The public will have a chance to select the winners by voting online “American Idol” style between Oct. 31 and Nov. 9. All finalists will be invited to an award ceremony on Nov. 15. Winners will be announced at the award ceremony. Prizes for the contest will consist of trophies, cash and other awards.

More information about the contest can be found at http://library.pacific.edu/contest.

Contact: Cynthia Hsieh, Head of Technical Services/Assistant Professor
University Library, University of the Pacific
3601 Pacific Ave.
Stockton, CA 95211
Tel: (209)946-2571

Email: chsieh@PACIFIC.EDU

2. East Asian Regional Materials and Resources Center (EARMARC) fall 2008 East Asian video workshop

Saturday, October 25 in Robinson Hall 137 on the CSU East Bay Hayward campus.

This program will screen the following videos:

· Kokoyaku – follows two high school baseball players in Japan

· Fine Rain: Politics and Folk Songs in China
China’s Convenience Store War – the dog-eat-dog competition between local and foreign-owned chains

· The Rape of Nanking – a French documentary on the Japanese occupation of Nanking

Contact: E. Bruce Reynolds (Director)

East Asian Regional Materials and Resources Center
History Department, San José State University
San José, CA 95192-0117
Phone: (408) 924-5523 EARMARC’s lending library provides audio-visual materials for high school and college students in Northern California. It currently holds hundreds of videos and many films which are related to China, Japan, and Korea. The collection also includes slide sets and audio materials. Almost all areas of East Asian society and culture are covered. Items are available on request to teachers in a university, college, or secondary school in Northern California as long as they are to be used for education purposes.

3. Teacher Workshop: Civic Engagement in the Classroom - October 29, 2008

World Savvy, ITVS, and KQED are sponsoring an evening workshop on engaging students in civic education and providing resources on teaching about democracy. Discuss youth civic engagement, learn about the state of democracy around the world, and receive free resources from the three sponsoring organizations. Event will be from Wed., Oct. 29 from 6:00-7:30 (with refreshments available at 5:30) at KQED, 2601 Mariposa Street, San Francisco.
To RSVP, email Roseli Ilano at roseli_ilano@itvs.org.
See also the online elections resources below.


LEGISLATION

4. H.R.7063 United States and the World Education
Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez introduced the United States and the World Education Act, H.R. 7063 on September 25 drafted by Ron Herring, Executive Director of the California International Studies Project. The legislation incorporates his 30+ years of experience in the professional development of California teachers to better prepare our youth for the global challenges they face. Ron's draft is based on the February 2006 report by the Committee for Economic Development, Education for Global Leadership, the Importance of International and Foreign Language Studies for U. S. Economic and National Security. The legislation offers new federal incentives for states and school districts to adopt more globally focused curricula as it provides funds for professional development of prospective, future and in-service teachers in international education.

You may support this bill by urging your congressional representatives to endorse H.R.7063.

Find information on the bill at http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h110-7063

Find information on contacting representatives at http://lwvc.convio.net/


ELECTION RESOURCES

5a. 2008 Presidential Election Resources

from KQED Education Network’s New Web Site for Social Studies & Language Arts Teachers - - www.kqed.org/HistoryEd

An Educator Resources section with classroom-ready lesson plans, student voter guides, links to partner sites and video clips from the documentaries “Please Vote for Me and Iron Ladies of Liberia”

5b. “Election ’08 and the Challenge of China” from USC

Where do Senators McCain and Obama stand on U.S.-China trade, security, environmental, and human rights issues? How important has policy toward China been in past elections and in 2008? These are the questions explored in a USC U.S.-China Institute documentary.

The online documentary has eight segments and has been produced for a general audience, though they hope educators will find it a useful tool to launch classroom discussions. The segments are:

Part 1: The Big Picture
Part 2: Tensions over Trade
Part 3: Human Rights
Part 4: Taiwan and China’ Military Buildup
Part 5: China’s Growing International Clout
Part 6: China in U.S. Campaign Politics
Part 7: McCain and China
Part 8: Obama and China

The documentary is available at the USC U.S.-China Institute (USCI) website (http://china.usc.edu) and at the Institute’s YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/USChinaInstitute). The USCI site also offers links to relevant speeches, government reports, agencies, and other materials. The YouTube site has a “watch high quality” option (just below the video player) that many may appreciate.

__________________________________________________

Michele Delattre, Program Representative
University of California Berkeley
ORIAS (Office of Resources for International and Area Studies
2223 Fulton Street Room 338 #2324
Berkeley CA 94720-2324
orias@berkeley.edu |510-643-0868 | http://orias.berkeley.edu