Applications are now open for the Summer Intensive: Deep Dive into the History of the U.S. Constitution, a weeklong professional learning experience running Sunday, June 7–Friday, June 12. Hosted in partnership with the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute and the Organization of American Historians, this program brings together acclaimed historians—including Annette Gordon-Reed and David Blight—alongside leading legal scholars for an in-depth exploration of constitutional history from the founding era through the Civil War, Reconstruction, and beyond. Participants will engage in scholar talks, panel discussions, and guided learning designed to strengthen both historical understanding and classroom practice.

Throughout the week, educators will explore the National Constitution Center’s exhibits, visit historic sites and cultural institutions across Old City Philadelphia, and complete selected readings that deepen and enrich each day’s content. Open to social studies educators currently teaching grades 6–12, the intensive offers a rare opportunity to connect directly with experts, examine landmark constitutional developments, and consider modern interpretations of the nation’s founding principles.

A stipend provided by the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute will cover travel, lodging, ticketed site visits, and most meals, with participants responsible for only limited additional costs. Applications are open until January 23. We encourage you to apply and join us for this inspiring week of scholarship, discovery, and professional growth.

Attend a Summer Educator Institute in Philadelphia

Applications are now open for the 2026 Educator Institutes at the National Constitution Center—weeklong, residential programs where teachers from across the country explore constitutional ideas, strengthen instructional practice, and build community. Next summer offers a particularly meaningful moment to join us in Philadelphia as the nation marks its 250th anniversary, creating an inspiring backdrop for learning and reflection.

Four institutes will be offered in June and July, each centered on a unique constitutional theme and open to educators teaching grades 5–12. Programs are free to attend, include a stipend to help offset travel and lodging, and run Sunday–Friday. Applications are due January 23, 2026, with notifications by February 20. We hope you’ll consider applying for this memorable professional learning experience.

More From the National Constitution Center

The Hill: This Thanksgiving, skip the discord and spark civic curiosity

by Julie Silverbrook, Vice President of Civic Education at the National Constitution Center

“Thanksgiving has always been more than a meal.

From George Washington’s 1789 proclamation calling for a national day of ‘public thanksgiving and prayer’ to Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 appeal for a war-torn nation to ‘set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise,’ the holiday has always carried a civic purpose.

It reminds us that gratitude is not only personal; it is public. It is a moment to give thanks for the shared ideals that bind us together as ‘We the People.’ And yet, for many Americans, big family meals can bring a degree of anxiety. … " Read more

You’re Invited: Events in December

🗓️ Live From the Museum: Abolitionist Heroes

Tuesday, December 2 | Noon-1 p.m. ET

Join us live in Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality. On December 6, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified; it would abolish slavery or involuntary servitude nationwide, except as punishment for a crime. This live student program will look at the heroic abolitionists who fought for decades to end slavery prior to the 13th Amendment and explore the tactics they employed as well as the challenges they faced in their fight for freedom.

🗓️ America's Town Hall: Amending the Constitution and the Article V Project

Wednesday, December 3 | Noon-1 p.m. ET

Join the National Constitution Center for the launch of its Article V Project, a new initiative exploring the founders’ vision for Article V and an historical look at the use of the Article V process from 1789 to the present. Project contributors and constitutional law experts Gerard Magliocca, Sanford Levinson, Michael Rappaport, and Stephen Sachs explore the origins, debates, and ongoing challenges surrounding Article V, as presented in their new essays. Jeffrey Rosen moderates.

🗓️ America's Town Hall: The Constitutional Legacy of Justice Robert Jackson

Monday, December 8 | Noon-1 p.m. ET

John Q. Barrett, discoverer and editor of Robert H. Jackson's acclaimed book That Man: An Insider's Portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt and writer of the popular blog The Jackson List, joins author and constitutional scholar Gerard Magliocca, author of The Actual Art of Governing: Justice Robert H. Jackson's Concurring Opinion in the Steel Seizure Case, and G. Edward White, author of Robert H. Jackson: A Life in Judgment, to discuss the Justice’s influential concurrence in Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. v. Sawyer, his approach to constitutional interpretation, and the lasting legacy he left on debates over presidential power. Jeffrey Rosen moderates.

🗓️ Monthly Virtual Session: First Amendment

Wednesday, December 17 | 6:30-8 p.m. ET

During this session, participants will learn about the text and history of the First Amendment, and how the First Amendment is considered today. Join us as our scholar examines historical and modern interpretations of the First Amendment. A member of the Center’s teacher network will share classroom-ready resources on the First Amendment and the amendment process.

Connect With Us

Constitution 101 | Professional Learning | Virtual Student Programs | Events Calendar 

About the National Constitution Center’s Educational Resources 

The National Constitution Center provides K-12 curriculum, professional learning, and student programs that make constitutional education engaging and relevant. Learn more at: constitutioncenter.org/education.

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