2025 North Carolina Council for the Social Studies Conference

NCCSS Business Meeting Agenda
February 20, 2025
Meeting starts promptly at 8:10 am

Welcome - Dr. Tim Hall, NCCSS President

Pledge of Allegiance
Introduction to Board Members
What’s in store?

NCCSS Budget Report - Paul Bonnici, NCCSS Treasurer

NCCSS Elections - Dr. Stephen Bond, NCCSS President-Elect

NCCSS Awards - Tyler Daugherty, NCCSS Vice-President
Janice Sutton, NCCSS Vendor Coordinator
Madison Westphal, Social Studies School Service

NCCSS Spotlights - Dr. Tim Hall, NCCSS President

NCDNCR
The Bill of Rights Institute

Final Remarks - Dr. Tim Hall, NCCSS President

Speakers

Tim Hall

K-12 Social Studies Instructional Coordinator, Vance County Schools

Tim Hall, Ph.D., is a K-12 Social Studies Instructional Specialist with Vance County Schools and President of the North Carolina Council for the Social Studies. He also serves as Vance County Coordinator for the North Carolina Council on the Holocaust. Tim has authored several textbook... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 7:00am - 8:50am EDT
Victoria 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

General

7:00am EDT

Social Studies Vendor & Exhibitor Setup

Thursday April 24, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am EDT

Speakers

Tim Hall

K-12 Social Studies Instructional Coordinator, Vance County Schools

Janice Sutton

Thursday April 24, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am EDT
Vendor & Exhibit Hall 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

General

7:00am EDT

Registration & Check-in for the NCCSS Conference LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 7:00am - 5:00pm EDT

Speakers

Paul Bonnici

Special Projects Coordinator, Carolina K-12

Gretchyn Bedard

Social Studies Teacher, Iredell-Statesville Schools

Gretchyn has been using C3 IDM for over a decade, building resources and offering PD to support classroom adoption of inquiry. She teaches World History & Economics & Personal Finance & is an advocate for the ethical use of AI in the classroom. Currently she works with several organizations... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 7:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Vendor & Exhibit Hall 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

General

9:00am EDT

Beyond Holidays: Teaching about Religion in K-8 Classrooms LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Avoiding the topic of religion is not really an option in today’s classrooms. Recent world events, increases in religiously motivated discrimination/harassment/violence, and enhanced recognition of religion as a factor in intersectional identity formation all highlight the importance of teaching about the world’s religions in U.S. schools. Religious holidays are a familiar entry point, and there are lots of published kids’ books and lesson plans using that angle. However, religious holidays can be problematic, particularly when it comes to equity. We’ll explore numerous alternatives to “the holiday approach,” with options like U.N. days (e.g., International Day of Peace, Zero Discrimination Day), pan-religious themes (e.g., sacred spaces), pan-religious values (e.g., kindness, charitable giving), and non-devotional non-holiday-centered kids’ books. We’ll also have time to hear from one another about challenges, concerns, and best practices. Handouts will include my recommendations for Diwali books, Hanukkah books, and Sikh books, as well as a Written Rationale for Teaching About World Religions, a PD document developed in conjunction with Tim Hall, current President of the NCCSS.

Speakers

Vicki Garlock

Founder, World Religions 4 Kids

I teach kids (and their grown-ups) about the world's religions! I love learning about people's religious background and journey. How were you raised? How were your parents raised? Did your family adhere to any religious practices or traditions? How would you describe your religious... Read More →

Diwali Books One pager pdf

Hanukkah Books One pager pdf

Ramadan Books One pager pdf

Written Rationale Teaching about World Religions pdf

Vicki Garlock Beyond Holidays pdf

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Tanglewood 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27496

All, Religious Literacy Education

9:00am EDT

Capturing the Unseen: Unveiling the Role of Women Activists in the Greensboro Sit-Ins Through Historical Inquiry LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

This session presents a historical inquiry designed to teach fourth-grade students how to develop counternarratives that challenge prevailing, and often-simplified, accounts of the 1960 Greensboro Sit-Ins, a pivotal Civil Rights event. Inspired by classes taught in a college environment, an elementary social studies teacher educator and two university archivists tailored the inquiry for elementary teachers who want to explore this historical event and consider alternative perspectives with students. To this end, we have developed a five-phase inquiry to investigate the question: “Who planned and carried out the Greensboro Sit-Ins of 1960?” The topic would be most appropriate for US History social studies.

Speakers

Patrick Dollar

Ryan Hughes

Kathelen McCarty Smith

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

All

9:00am EDT

Teaching Global Education in the Classroom LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Augusta A

Global education is multifaceted, evolving, and can pose challenges for introduction in the classroom. The UNC area studies centers provide resources for educators interested in incorporating content on places such as the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Africa. This session is for teachers interested in learning about a broad array of programming, such as teaching websites and professional development opportunities, to enhance global perspectives in the classroom.

Speakers

Nataliia Bondarenko

Alaa Hammouda

Laura Cox

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Augusta A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27491

All, Global Competence

9:00am EDT

The Historic Magnolia House Virtual Exhibit LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Edinburgh

This Virtual Reality exhibit will offer visitors an immersive experience that bridges the past with the present, focusing on the experiences of Black travelers in a segregated America. Join us for a Cinematic Virtual Reality Experience that immerses the viewer in the long history of restriction of movement for Black Americans and the creation of safe spaces in our communities.

Reserve Ticket for $14.99
Add Shoebox lunch for $9.99 (Shoebox lunch recreates how the negro traveler would eat if they didn't have a safe place to stop while traveling during Jim Crow). Pick up to go lunch box at 12pm either Thurs or Fri at 12pm. Be sure to pre pay and pre order

For more information on the Historic Magnolia House

Speakers

Natalie Miller

CEO and Founder, The Historic Magnolia

Preserve African American sites, reunite them with their communities, and give them a voice to tell their own stories through creating living historic spaces, education, the arts and community. The Magnolia Shoebox Meal Virtual Reality Traveling While Black Immersive Experience is... Read More →

Stacey Kyser

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Edinburgh 3121 West Gate City Boulevard, Greensboro, NC, USA

All

9:00am EDT

Engaging Multi-Lingual, Special Education, and ALL Students through DBQ Online LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Using the DBQ Online platform, educators will explore practical methods for engaging students, including Multi-Lingual learners and those requiring accommodations. Participants will learn adaptable scaffolding techniques that foster inquiry and critical thinking across content areas, with a focus on inclusivity and differentiation. This session will empower educators to create DBQ experiences that are both accessible and challenging, ensuring all students are engaged and succeed, regardless of their learning needs.

Speakers

Jackie Migliori

Regional Director of Professional Development and Partnerships, The DBQ Project

The DBQ Project was founded in 2000 to support teachers and students in learning to read smart, think straight, and write more clearly. As teachers, we believe all students can develop high-level critical thinking skills if they have consistent instruction and a chance to practice... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Auditorium IV - Room sponsored by Ford's Theatre 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27498

K5 Middle High

9:00am EDT

Case in Point: Teaching Economics and Personal Finance through Real-World Scenarios and Case Studies LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Augusta B

This interactive session will focus on leveraging case studies to teach economics and personal finance concepts to high school students. We will introduce a dynamic approach to using case studies that mirror real-life financial and economic challenges. Attendees will explore how case studies can engage students in analyzing financial situations, developing decision-making strategies, and understanding economic implications. Participants will leave with actionable strategies and resources to implement case-based learning in their classrooms. Participants will work to analyze 2 sample case studies and use those to identify learning opportunities, and brainstorm strategies for classroom application. Emphasis will be placed on engaging students in critical thinking, using structured problem-solving methods, and facilitating discussions on the connection between personal decisions and broader economic outcomes.

Speakers

Amber Thomas

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Augusta B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27492

Middle High

9:00am EDT

Tackling Tough Topics: Strategies for Standards-Driven Instruction LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

This session is designed to empower educators to confidently address challenging or controversial topics in the classroom. The session explores the importance of teaching these topics, strategies for aligning them with academic standards, and techniques for fostering a safe, inclusive environment for discussion.

Speakers

Amber Smith

Curriculum Facilitator, Gaston County Schools

Tendai Gutu

Teacher, Gaston County Schools

I´m Dr. Tendai Gutu, I hold an Ed.D in Leadership and Innovation and have dedicated much of my research to exploring challenging subjects within Social Studies, which I believe is crucial for fostering critical thinking in our students.

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Tidewater A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27493

Middle High

9:00am EDT

Commemorating America 250 in the Classroom LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Help students commemorate the 250th anniversary of the state and nation. The Department of Natural & Cultural Resources is leading the America 250 NC commemoration and has produced resources to help K-12 students learn about change over time for state government and voting rights and explore the question, “When Are We US?” Classroom activities and displays can boost instruction about the founding principles of government and raise questions about citizen rights and responsibilities, while examining the cultural heritage the state preserves and inspiring students to make the past meaningful. This content is especially relevant for U.S. history and civics classes.

Speakers

Adrienne Berney

The State Archives of N.C. collects and preserves government records and private collections, documenting the history of our state. We hope to share a variety of these primary sources to inspire teachers and engage students in the classroom.

Anna Freeman

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Pebble Beach 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27497

Middle High District

9:00am EDT

What Fires Together Wires Together: The Science of Simulations LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Sandpiper

Simulations requiring physical movement, creativity, and problem-solving—while affecting simulated real-world outcomes—produce the energy necessary to wire the students' neural network for higher recall, better learning, and synthesis. Learn the science of simulations and how to design and implement them to avoid pitfalls and get the best from this dynamic learning strategy.

Speakers

Bill Norton

Visiting Scholar, Self-Government Works (Bellevue University)

Bill Norton is a public speaker, author, and expert on the principles of liberty and the U.S. Constitution. He co-authored The Miracle of America, Speaking the Language of Liberty, and Behind the Bill of Rights. For 20 years, Bill has worked with the National Center for Constitutional... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Sandpiper 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27495

Middle High District

9:00am EDT

Social Studies Vendors and Exhibitors LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm EDT

Thursday April 24, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Vendor & Exhibit Hall 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

General

10:00am EDT

Engaging Globally and Locally with State Library Resources LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:25am EDT

The State Library of North Carolina’s Government and Heritage Library offers resources to meet the needs of educators and learners alike. Join this session to learn more about SLNC's freely available resources, including student-friendly informational texts, historical document databases, digital collections, and more. This session will feature resources to support engaging instruction for learners of all grade levels and content areas in any location across North Carolina.

Speakers

Alyssa Putt

Education and Instruction Librarian, State Library of North Carolina

As the Education and Instruction Librarian at the State Library of North Carolina's Government and Heritage Library, I manage all things education and develop content and collaborations with a focus on K-12 education. I'm a former Durham Public Schools media coordinator and classroom... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:25am EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

All, Global Competence

10:00am EDT

Teaching with a Global Mindset: Building a Classroom That Values Diversity LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:25am EDT

Did you know that North Carolina is home to over 1,200 international companies? This fact highlights the need for preparing students for a global, knowledge-driven economy. In this session, we will explore strategies for equipping students with essential skills like cross-cultural communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. As a participant in the 2022-23 NEA Global Fellowship, a program focused on global education and sustainable development, I will share interdisciplinary SDG lessons, classroom resources, and professional development opportunities for teachers. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with actionable strategies and resources to help your students succeed in today’s interconnected world.

Speakers

Victoria Mahoney

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:25am EDT
Tidewater A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27493

K5, Global Competence | Middle, Global Competence

10:00am EDT

Beyond Brown v. Board: Exploring the Wilmington 10 through Primary Sources LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

Augusta B

Presenters will introduce LaGarrett King’s Black historical consciousness framework as the basis of the presentation and engage participants using historical thinking skills (sourcing, context, multiple perspectives, etc.). Participants will analyze a letter to Rosa Parks as a gateway into exploring the Wilmington 10 as a counter narrative to school desegregation after Brown v. Board. The session will include an overview of school integration in Wilmington, NC, the closing of Williston High School and the reaction to the closing, and the Wilmington 10. Digital sources that can be used in 4th grade, 8th grade, and US history courses will be shared.

Speakers

Cara Ward

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Lisa Buchanan

Associate Professor of Education, Elon University

Denise Ousley Exum

Mary Boyd

Donyell Roseboro

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Augusta B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27492

All, Civil Rights

10:00am EDT

Complex or Not? Teaching Honest History of the Civil War & Reconstruction in NC LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

While some aspects of Civil War & Reconstruction history are complex, some are not. In a time of heightened tensions around teaching about controversial aspects of history, teachers may be tempted to pull their punches on aspects of the era that are not in doubt. This session will present the NC History Center's advice on how to be clear where clarity is crucial, as well as share how the NCHC is modeling high-quality content-driven PD in the state.

Speakers

NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation, and Reconstruction

The NC History Center, in development for over a decade, is nearing construction of its main exhibit building in Fayetteville. Please visit our booth to learn about our plans to share honest history about how everyone in NC was affected by the Civil War and Reconstruction era. Also... Read More →

Raven Cathey

Teacher, Beaufort County Schools NC

Whitney Conrad

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Auditorium IV - Room sponsored by Ford's Theatre 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27498

All

10:00am EDT

Exploring Europe with VR LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

Augusta A

This session with VR headsets comprises a crash course on the EU & European capitals. Learn strategies for leveraging novel technologies and close looking to facilitate student exploration of the transatlantic relationship. Participants will consider the historical, economic, and social factors that informed the EU's development, and use VR and the built environment to anchor these discussions. Suitable for all grade levels.

Speakers

Brett Harris

UNC Center for European Studies

UNC-Chapel Hill’s six Global Area Studies Centers provide services and resources for instruction, learning and research related to global issues, world regions and modern foreign languages. The Centers cooperate to better serve the University and public by hosting their own events... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Augusta A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27491

All

10:00am EDT

Exploring Five World Faiths in Your Classroom LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

Participants will investigate objects that represent five world faith traditions – Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam – and engage in a visual analysis of these primary sources as they relate to those belief systems. During this interactive session, participants will investigate selected works of art from the Ackland Art Museum's collection that represent five world faith traditions and engage in a visual analysis of these primary sources as they relate to their respective belief systems. Based on these investigations, we will consider more broadly the role works of art can play in teaching students the methods of historical and cultural inquiry.

Speakers

Jenny Marvel

Head of School and Community Programs, Ackland Art Museum, UNC-Chapel Hill

Jenny Marvel is the Head of School and Community Programs at the Ackland. Her experience includes developing, implementing, and assessing school and community tours, online resource materials for students and teachers, and cross-cultural and interdisciplinary teacher workshops. When... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Tanglewood 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27496

All, Religious Literacy Education

10:00am EDT

The Bob Dylan Pedagogy LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

What if Bob Dylan wrote your history curriculum? This session takes a page from the man who said, “If I had to do it all over again, I’d be a schoolteacher,” and spins it into a new way of thinking about social studies. Forget dry facts—embrace history that questions, meanders, and makes you feel something. Whether you teach US History, World History, or Civics, you’ll learn how to channel Dylan’s knack for peeling back layers, unsettling certainties, and turning students into explorers of the human condition. If history has a voice, why not make it sing?

Speakers

Drew Fortune

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Pebble Beach 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27497

All

10:00am EDT

The Historic Magnolia House Virtual Exhibit LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

Edinburgh

Reserve Ticket for $14.99
Add Shoebox lunch for $9.99 (Shoebox lunch recreates how the negro traveler would eat if they didn't have a safe place to stop while traveling during Jim Crow). Pick up to go lunch box at 12pm either Thurs or Fri at 12pm. Be sure to pre pay and pre order

For more information on the Historic Magnolia House

Speakers

Stacey Kyser

Natalie Miller

CEO and Founder, The Historic Magnolia

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Edinburgh 3121 West Gate City Boulevard, Greensboro, NC, USA

All

10:00am EDT

Revolutionary Women: Teaching the American Revolution through Women's History LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT

Sandpiper

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, explore the contributions and challenges women faced leading up to and during the American Revolution. Using resources from “Women & the American Story” (WAMS), the New York Historical’s free online curriculum guide, learn how to seamlessly integrate these significant, yet often overlooked, stories into your classroom practice. This session will model inquiry-based activities that can strengthen students’ critical thinking skills when studying US History.

Speakers

Kelly Aliano

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Sandpiper 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27495

High

10:30am EDT

Stress Less with AI FILLING

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:30am - 10:55am EDT

Overwhelmed? Not enough time in the day? Come to this session and learn how to use AI tools to help you streamline your workload. This session is for anyone who works in education and finds themselves bogged down with neverending to do lists. In this session, you will learn about and practice using AI applications from Goblin Tools, ChatGPT, and Magic School to make your life easier!

Speakers

Ashley Grant

Social Studies Teacher, Greene County Schools

Ashley is excited to speak about two things she is passionate about: education technology and social studies education! She is also running for a position on the NCCSS Board of Directors. A social studies teacher for 13 years, Ashley has served many roles including curriculum writer... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 10:30am - 10:55am EDT
Tidewater A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27493

All

10:30am EDT

The New NCpedia: A Redesigned Resource LIMITED

Creating Inclusive Classrooms: Empowering Sikh Students and Beyond LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Join the Sikh Coalition’s session on the Sikh experience to receive background information on Sikh tenets, history, and contributions along with methods to incorporate the community perspective in US and World History classrooms. In addition, educators will be equipped with a deeper understanding of the role of inclusive education in ensuring the safety of not only Sikh students but other minoritized communities as well and free resources for educators and the classroom.

Speakers

Upneet Kaur

Savleen Singh

Rucha Kaur

Deepjyot Sidhu

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Tanglewood 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27496

All, Religious Literacy Education

11:00am EDT

North Carolina Native Communities 101 FULL

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Augusta A

North Carolina has the highest Indigenous population east of the Mississippi, making the state’s past and present rich with Indigenous histories & resilient cultures. The American Indian Heritage Commission, a program of the NC Department of Natural & Cultural Resources (DNCR), is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and promoting North Carolina’s American Indian history, arts, customs, cultures, and modern-day contributions. In this session, we’ll explore contemporary American Indian communities around the state, dispel common misconceptions, and work to build awareness that can better serve Native and non-Native students. Participants will also learn about DNCR’s classroom resources and professional development opportunities.

Speakers

Christie Norris

Director of Education, NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

Stephen Bell

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Augusta A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27491

All

11:00am EDT

The Historic Magnolia House Virtual Exhibit LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Edinburgh

Reserve Ticket for $14.99
Add Shoebox lunch for $9.99 (Shoebox lunch recreates how the negro traveler would eat if they didn't have a safe place to stop while traveling during Jim Crow). Pick up to go lunch box at 12pm either Thurs or Fri at 12pm. Be sure to pre pay and pre order

For more information on the Historic Magnolia House

Speakers

Stacey Kyser

Natalie Miller

CEO and Founder, The Historic Magnolia

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Edinburgh 3121 West Gate City Boulevard, Greensboro, NC, USA

All

11:00am EDT

Holocaust and Genocide Education: Striving for Empathy and Accuracy LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Teaching the Holocaust is a profound responsibility that requires sensitivity, accuracy, and the ability to foster empathy in students. This session offers practical strategies for integrating resources from the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and the NC Council on the Holocaust into their teaching. By leveraging these materials, educators can create meaningful learning experiences that honor the victims, highlight the resilience of survivors, and confront the historical realities of this pivotal event. Participants will explore age-appropriate resources designed to engage students in critical thinking and address common challenges, such as balancing the emotional impact of the content with student age and maturity levels and combating misinformation or bias. This session will include resources for 6-8 Social Studies, World History, Civics, and American History.

Speakers

NC Council on the Holocaust

Regional Director, Workshop Planning Team, NC Council on the Holocaust

The North Carolina Council on the Holocaust is a state agency in the N.C. Department of Public Instruction, established in 1981 by Governor James B. Hunt, Jr., and authorized in 1985, by the General Assembly. It is composed of 24 members, of whom six are Holocaust survivors or first-generation... Read More →

Lee Holder

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Pebble Beach 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27497

All, Holocaust Studies | District, Holocaust Studies

11:00am EDT

Tar Heel Boys and Girls State - Information Session LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Augusta B

The Tar Heel Boys and Girls state programs are the premier government in action summer leadership programs in the state for rising high school seniors. This session will be an in depth look at the programs and will explain how we build government from the city and county levels, create political parties and platforms, and elect a governor of our fictious state in the span of one week. We will also discuss how to find the local contacts in your area so your students are represented.

Speakers

Emily Cayton

Stephen Moore

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Augusta B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27492

High District

11:00am EDT

Engaging Minds: The Impact of Regular Discussion in Inquiry-Based Social Studies LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

This session explores the role of structured, regular discussion in enhancing student engagement and deepening understanding within an inquiry-based social studies framework. The presenter will share a flexible tool that was featured on C3Teahers.org to help facilitate reflection in student discussions, enabling educators to capture students' evolving thoughts, questions, and insights over time. By integrating this tool, teachers can create a dynamic classroom environment where students actively construct knowledge through dialogue throughout the inquiry process, critically examine diverse perspectives, and develop essential communication and reasoning skills. The session will provide practical strategies for implementing regular discussions and utilizing tools to support inquiry, foster deeper learning, and promote student-centered engagement.

Speakers

Gretchyn Bedard

Social Studies Teacher, Iredell-Statesville Schools

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Auditorium IV - Room sponsored by Ford's Theatre 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27498

Middle High

11:00am EDT

"What'd She Say?" - Diverse Voices from Women's History LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Victoria

High school and middle school teachers will be introduced to instructional activities and bell ringers available through ABC-CLIO and other sources that support inquiry based learning and critical thinking. Participants will take on the role of students as they engage with a sample bell ringer and instructional activity that brings to life diverse female voices and untold stories from Women’s History in the United States. Teachers will leave the session with a full lesson including primary and secondary sources to use in the classroom.

Speakers

Nicki Griffin

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Victoria 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Middle High District

11:00am EDT

From Barriers to Bridges: Supporting Multilingual Learners Through Lesson Design LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT

Sandpiper

Are you struggling with modifying lessons for Multilingual (EL) Learners? Come to this session to see how two teachers have modified lessons to make content accessible for Multilingual (EL) learners. Participants will receive modified lesson plan samples in the following subjects: World History, Economics and Personal Finance, and Civic Literacy and strategies to help you modify your lessons in the future. You are encouraged to bring a lesson that you would like help modifying for your classroom.

Speakers

Crystal Rlmar

Jonathan Richards

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Sandpiper 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27495

Middle High District

11:30am EDT

“FREE THE GENERATION” SEMINAR; Creating SEE Moments through Cross-Cultural Communication during learning experiences while understanding the Impact of Significant Emotional Events LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:30am - 11:55am EDT

“FREE THE GENERATION” SEMINAR:This seminar develops into a three part session that provides 3 Interactive ways to implement Cross-Cultural Communication: A Working Session on How to Foster an Inclusive Environment that creates learning experiences that allow students to experience a SEE Moment (Significant Emotional Event) during daily lessons. Designed and created for each participant to learn strategies on how to address and confront challenges that hinder us from identifying and creating SEE Moments during learning experiences that sustain positive learning environments. All while evaluating and generating an understanding of the impact of Significant Emotional Events.

Speakers

Evette Rawls

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:30am - 11:55am EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

All

11:30am EDT

Partnering with Parents: Our Story of Utilizing Parents' Stories to Make our Curriculum Come Alive! LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:30am - 11:55am EDT

Beginning last school year, we have made an intentional effort to partner with our students' parents to come speak with the 7th graders about their first-hand experiences in the places that we study in our World Geography class. These accounts have included locations we study such as Saudi Arabia, Ghana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa, and Dubai. Parents have shared their pictures, videos, stories, and artifacts that connect to our classroom curriculum. We want to share how the idea came about, how it has evolved, and what we have learned through this journey in developing parent partnerships.

Speakers

Melissa Ramel

Catherine Cody

Thursday April 24, 2025 11:30am - 11:55am EDT
Tidewater A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27493

Middle

12:00pm EDT

Lunch on Your Own LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT

All

1:00pm EDT

Keynote & Book Signing: Teaching about Religion in Polarizing Times

Thursday April 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT

Victoria

Teaching about Religion in Polarizing Times: Most states require social studies teachers to teach about the world's religions, but how do educators avoid controversy in an increasingly polarized country? Religion is at the center of renewed culture wars as some state leaders and lawmakers push for Ten Commandments posters in schools; religious chaplains as counselors; Christianity-infused lesson plans; and a Bible in every classroom. Author of Faith Ed, Linda K. Wertheimer, whose own personal story set her off on a quest to write about religion in schools, will share examples of teachers who have navigated controversies in world religion classes. What are some lessons learned? What difference can high-quality instruction about religion make in combating religious bigotry and improving religious literacy?

Linda K. Wertheimer will be signing copies of her book, Faith Ed: Teaching about Religion in an Age of Intolerance, which will be available for purchase after her keynote address. Proceeds from the book sales will be donated to the National Council for the Social Studies' First Timer Scholarship Program, in line with NCCSS's commitment as a Gold Star Affiliate.

Speakers

Linda K. Wertheimer

Author, FAITH ED: TEACHING ABOUT RELIGION IN AN AGE OF INTOLERANCE

Short Bio: Linda K. Wertheimer, a veteran journalist and former Boston Globe education editor, is the award-winning author of Faith Ed, Teaching About Religion In An Age of Intolerance. During her nearly 30-year journalism career, she was a reporter at The Dallas Morning News... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Victoria 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

All, Religious Literacy Education

2:00pm EDT

Globalizing Social Studies through Ukrainian Naïve Art

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:25pm EDT

This session explores how Ukrainian Naïve Art can enrich social studies curricula by fostering global awareness and cultural understanding. Participants will discover strategies for integrating visual art to enhance cross-disciplinary learning, promote diverse perspectives, and engage students in meaningful discussions about history, identity, and resilience.

Speakers

Nataliia Bondarenko

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:25pm EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

All

2:00pm EDT

But What Does it Mean to Me? LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

Augusta B

This session is designed to help all students critically examine and interpret primary sources while considering the sources’ place, time and perspective.

Speakers

Dawn Smith

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Augusta B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27492

All

2:00pm EDT

The Historic Magnolia House Virtual Exhibit LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

Edinburgh

Reserve Ticket for $14.99
Add Shoebox lunch for $9.99 (Shoebox lunch recreates how the negro traveler would eat if they didn't have a safe place to stop while traveling during Jim Crow). Pick up to go lunch box at 12pm either Thurs or Fri at 12pm. Be sure to pre pay and pre order

For more information on the Historic Magnolia House

Speakers

Stacey Kyser

Natalie Miller

CEO and Founder, The Historic Magnolia

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Edinburgh 3121 West Gate City Boulevard, Greensboro, NC, USA

All

2:00pm EDT

Voices of Freedom: Empowering Junior Docents to Illuminate NC's Freedom Park LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

8th-grade students will present during this session. Experience the power of place-based learning and student-driven storytelling with "Voices of Freedom." This session showcases a unique collaboration with the African American Heritage Commission and Carolina K-12 to develop a Junior Docent Tour for North Carolina’s Freedom Park in Raleigh—a site celebrating the legacy of Black Carolinians, Freedom, and Resilience. Learn how eight middle school students from The Exploris School are mastering public history as they uncover and share the lives behind the park’s iconic quotes. Participants will explore how this project engages students in meaningful, interdisciplinary studies connecting American and North Carolina history, civics, and cultural heritage.

This hands-on, inquiry-based approach equips students with public speaking skills, historical research capabilities, and a deeper appreciation of the stories shaping our society. Join us to discover strategies for implementing similar projects in your community, empowering students to become active stewards of history. Through Jr. Docent programs like this, we can inspire the next generation to preserve and teach critical narratives while fostering a greater understanding of diversity, equity, and justice in the historical record. Suitable for educators in American and North Carolina history, this session promises to leave you inspired and equipped to make history come alive in your classrooms.

Speakers

Cori Greer-Banks

Director, Carolina K-12

Teachers are my bonafide favorite people. If you need NC resources—whether for history, civics, literature, or STEM, Carolina K-12 has you covered. Reach out to me and let me know how I can best help you in your classroom.

Khadija McNair

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Auditorium IV - Room sponsored by Ford's Theatre 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27498

All, Civil Rights

2:00pm EDT

Why Does Religion Matter? Religious Literacy and Global Competence LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

Participants explore the challenges that educators face when teaching about religion while being provided constitutional solutions to these challenges. Educators gain access to guidelines, frameworks, lessons, and resources, enabling them to teach about religion confidently, connecting it to global competence.

Speakers

Tim Hall

K-12 Social Studies Instructional Coordinator, Vance County Schools

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Tanglewood 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27496

All, Religious Literacy Education

2:00pm EDT

Dodging Bullets on a Dying Planet: The Challenges and Benefits of an Action-based Civics Curriculum LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

The purpose of this work is to create a modified civics curriculum designed to address issues of polarization, trust in democratic institutions, and political efficacy for students in a Title 1 urban high school. Principles of action civics were used with an emphasis on local and state politics. The curriculum was designed with the goal of giving students hands-on experience with the final step of the Inquiry Model: taking informed action.

Speakers

John Hensley

PhD candidate, North Carolina State University

I am interested in all aspects of civic education, especially curricula that is student-centered, action-based and uses inquiry methods.I am currently a social studies teacher in Wake County and also a PhD candidate at NC State. My dissertation is based on a civics elective I created... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Tidewater A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27493

High

2:00pm EDT

Fostering Civic Literacy Through Inquiry-Based Learning LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

Augusta A

Equip your elementary and middle school students with essential civics and literacy skills through inquiry-based learning! This presentation highlights how inquiry-based learning can strengthen civic literacy skills and dispositions by leveraging engaging civic content. This session highlights 5E inquiry strategies—engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate—to develop critical thinking, primary source analysis, and social-emotional learning. Explore free, adaptable lessons including culturally responsive pedagogies that foster inclusive, student-centered classrooms. Ideal for educators teaching foundational democratic concepts, this session demonstrates how to cultivate literacy skills and empower student agency, preparing young learners to thrive in today’s diverse and complex world with the tools needed for informed, active participation. During the session, participants will get access to free resources, webinars, and professional opportunities that the Center offers.

Speakers

Anna Ballard

Coordinator of National Programs and Grants, Center for Civic Education

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Augusta A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27491

K5 Middle

2:00pm EDT

Wilmington 1898: Geographies of Rage, Resistance, and Resilience LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

Sandpiper

Director and co-directors of a 2024 National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Teacher Institute focusing on the Wilmington coup and massacre will share a variety of digital resources as well as lesson plans created by the teachers who attended the institute. A brief overview of the coup and massacre, classroom-ready resources, and plans for more professional development sessions will be shared. This session aligns with content for 4th grade, 8th grade, and American history courses.

Speakers

Cara Ward

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Tiffany Gilbert

Lynn Mollenauer

Chair, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Sandpiper 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27495

Middle, Civil Rights | High, Civil Rights

2:00pm EDT

Using the Social Studies FIELD Guide to Engage Your Learners and Create Powerful Learning LIMITED

Literacy for Civic Life: Innovative Civic Literacy in Diverse Settings

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

Attendees will examine curricular experiences for students and professional learning content for teachers that aim to address the civic literacy crisis that exists in the U.S. today. Discover what is being learned from North Carolina teachers implementing this work as part of a fellowship in high-need urban and rural schools. Attendees will learn how Literacy for Civic Life (LCL) fellowship teachers are using the LCL curriculum to enhance their teaching, and what they learned in the process about using intensive reading and writing tasks and instruction to teach across the C3 inquiry arc while focusing on civic literacy.

Speakers

Rob Kasher

Chief Program Officer, Literacy Design Collaborative

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Vendor & Exhibit Hall 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Middle High District

2:30pm EDT

Social Studies the Gateway to the World

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:30pm - 2:55pm EDT

Social Studies: The Gateway to the Worlds. I wanted to share some thoughts on how our Social Studies curriculum can really emphasize the connection between history and current events. It’s fascinating to see how historical events shape today’s world, and I believe we can enhance our students’ understanding by making these links clearer. Let’s talk about how we can integrate discussions on historical influences into our lessons. For instance, exploring significant events and their impacts can help students see the relevance of history in their daily lives and current affairs. I’d appreciate your input on how we can collaborate to make this a focal point in our teaching. Perhaps we could brainstorm some activities or projects that highlight these connections?

Speakers

Jozette Broughton

Thursday April 24, 2025 2:30pm - 2:55pm EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

3:00pm EDT

Culturally Inclusive Primary Documents LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

Augusta B

Build a more inclusive classroom and enhance the inquiry cycle as students analyze multiple historical perspectives and evaluate how the elevation or erasure of sources impacts historical narratives. US history is often biased by the type of primary sources created and recognized by Europeans and European Americans. This session will explore methods and practical resources to introduce students to neglected sources and help them build skillsets to recognize and analyze diverse narratives.

Speakers

Jessie Gillooly

Professional Learning Manager, Gibbs Smith Education

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Augusta B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27492

All

3:00pm EDT

Engaging with Art: Writing Activities to use in the Classroom LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

Augusta A

During this interactive session, participants will engage in multiple arts-integrated close looking and writing experiences with works of art that can be adapted as bell ringer exercises, introductions to units of study, or as stand-alone lesson plans. This session is appropriate for all K12 educators with strong connections to American and World History.

Speakers

Jenny Marvel

Head of School and Community Programs, Ackland Art Museum, UNC-Chapel Hill

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Augusta A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27491

All

3:00pm EDT

The 5Ks and Beyond: Exploring Historical and Contemporary Sikh American Experiences LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

Expand your understanding of Sikhism and Sikh American experiences. Sikh identity is often very visible on the surface, but the practices, beliefs, and experiences of Sikh Americans are often invisible. Learn more about Sikhism and the 120 years of Sikh-American history. Receive resources to promote cultural and religious literacy to enhance your teaching of AAPI history and heritage.

Speakers

Kate Soules

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Tanglewood 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27496

All, Religious Literacy Education

3:00pm EDT

The Historic Magnolia House Virtual Exhibit LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

Edinburgh

Reserve Ticket for $14.99
Add Shoebox lunch for $9.99 (Shoebox lunch recreates how the negro traveler would eat if they didn't have a safe place to stop while traveling during Jim Crow). Pick up to go lunch box at 12pm either Thurs or Fri at 12pm. Be sure to pre pay and pre order

For more information on the Historic Magnolia House

Speakers

Stacey Kyser

Natalie Miller

CEO and Founder, The Historic Magnolia

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Edinburgh 3121 West Gate City Boulevard, Greensboro, NC, USA

All

3:00pm EDT

Understanding Valley Forge as a Turning Point in American History LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

Teachers, want to inspire and get your students engaged about Colonial American history? Then you need to be at this dynamic experience where we will explore and dive into the history of the winter encampment at Valley Forge by learning classroom strategies focused around George Washington, Thomas Paine, General Baron Von Steuben, and more. We will discuss classroom structure, engagement activities, and conferencing with students to develop success in your U.S. history lessons by using an easy to adapt lesson plan template, F.O.R.G.E.S. Whether you teach elementary, middle, or high school, you will find something useful in this session that you can take back to your classrooms to get your students hyped!

Speakers

Jeff L. Scott, Ph.D.

Executive Director-Experiencing America and Academic Operations, Troy University

Experiencing America is the dynamic partnership between Troy University and the American Village. We provide amazing opportunities for teachers, students, and the community at-large.

Tarra Ellis

Interim Dean/Associate Professor, Wingate University

Tarra Ellis is a National Board Certified Teacher with almost 30 years of experience in diverse K-12 and higher education classrooms. She holds a B.A. in Middle Grades Education (UNC Chapel Hill), an M.Ed. in Middle and Secondary Education, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Victoria 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Middle High

3:00pm EDT

Igniting Inquiry: National History Day in North Carolina Classrooms LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

Empower your students to become historians! Join National History Day (NHD) State Coordinator Karen Ipock and Davidson County Schools educator Ashley Coons, also a former NHD student, as they explore how the program brings historical inquiry to life for students. This yearlong, inquiry-based program aligns with NC educational standards and promotes critical thinking in state, U.S., and World History. You’ll leave with tools to inspire student curiosity and meaningful historical exploration, along with resources to easily incorporate it into your classroom. This workshop is perfect for middle and high school teachers seeking active, integrative, and challenging approaches to social studies!

Speakers

Ashley Coons

AIG Specialist, Davidson County Schools

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Pebble Beach 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27497

Middle High District

3:00pm EDT

Insights from the Bill of Right’s Institute’s Civic Literacy Standards-Alignment Workshop LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT

You no longer have to read through all of the 6,000 classroom-ready lessons that are available for free on the Bill of Rights Institute's website. https://billofrightsinstitute.org/north-carolina-bri-aligned-state-standards A cohort of North Carolina teachers has aligned 86 of their best lessons to our Civic Literacy standards. If you are confused by our state’s unpacking document, start here for a simple roadmap that will help organize your instruction, cover all your content, and set your students up for success in understanding the American system of government.

Speakers

Scott Petri

Thursday April 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

Middle High District

4:00pm EDT

Infusing Global Education into Social Studies LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

In this session, participants will understand global education competencies and professional teaching standards related to global education and how to incorporate them into social studies. The session will actively engage participants in their learning through various activities demonstrating how global education can enhance social studies instruction. Participants will also learn about the new Global Educator Micro-Credentials and Digital Badge process to enhance their professional development goals.

Speakers

Kelly Schultz

Standards Implementation Specialist, NCDPI

Kelly Schultz entered the field of education in the Spring of 2008 as a secondary English Language Arts teacher. She has since progressed in the field serving as a curriculum coach, MTSS District Coordinator, and NCDPI Education Consultant. Kelly has taught in both Illinois and North... Read More →

Phylisha Sanders

Social Studies Consultant, NCDPI

Phylisha Sanders has dedicated herself to becoming a life-long educator and learner. A native of North Carolina, she became a middle school social studies teacher after graduating from North Carolina Central University. In her role as a classroom teacher, she was selected to serve... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Pebble Beach 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27497

All, Global Competence

4:00pm EDT

Teaching 9/11 in Today's World: Approaches for a New Generation FILLING

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

Augusta B

Explore effective strategies for teaching the events and impact of 9/11 to a generation that was not alive during the attacks. This session will help educators navigate sensitive topics, foster empathy, and connect the historical significance of 9/11 to today’s global issues. Learn how to approach difficult conversations, incorporate multimedia resources, and create lessons that promote understanding and reflection. Participants will leave with tools to engage students in discussions about terrorism, resilience, and the ways 9/11 continues to shape the world.

Speakers

Nick Sebesta

Social Studies Instructional Coach, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Augusta B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27492

All

4:00pm EDT

The Historic Magnolia House Virtual Exhibit LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

Edinburgh

Reserve Ticket for $14.99
Add Shoebox lunch for $9.99 (Shoebox lunch recreates how the negro traveler would eat if they didn't have a safe place to stop while traveling during Jim Crow). Pick up to go lunch box at 12pm either Thurs or Fri at 12pm. Be sure to pre pay and pre order

For more information on the Historic Magnolia House

Speakers

Stacey Kyser

Natalie Miller

CEO and Founder, The Historic Magnolia

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Edinburgh 3121 West Gate City Boulevard, Greensboro, NC, USA

All

4:00pm EDT

Transformative Pedagogy: Navigating Traumatic Histories in Education LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

Augusta A

This session delves into reevaluating pedagogy for teaching traumatic histories, emphasizing inclusivity, empathy, and transformative methods. Participants will gain strategies for navigating complexities, acknowledging emotional impacts, fostering critical thinking, and adapting student-centered approaches. Practical insights ensure educators create empathetic, resilient learning environments.

Speakers

Latonda Mitchell

Elementary Social Studies Curriculum Specialist, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools

Versatile Curriculum Specialist with extensive experience in professional training, instructional design, and program facilitation. Proven ability to craft engaging learning experiences for diverse audiences by leveraging technology and data-driven insights. Skilled at fostering collaboration... Read More →

Danielle Lennon

Samantha Zapata

Curriculum Specialist, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools

Samantha Zapata, a 20-year veteran educator, is the Social Studies Curriculum Specialist for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. She supports over 40 high schools and nearly 400 teachers through professional development, instructional design, and training. Committed to equity and inclusion... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Augusta A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27491

All

4:00pm EDT

“They Called Us Enemy”: An Interdisciplinary Study of Japanese American Incarceration during WWII LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

Using Takei's graphic novel "They Called us Enemy" together with a curated primary source set, the audience will engage an interdisciplinary study of Japanese American incarceration in the United States during WWII. Presenters will model historically responsive question writing, source analysis, and interdisciplinary instructional design for social studies and ELA teachers in grades 4-10. Participants will receive digital access to the source set and teacher supplementary materials. Presenters will also overview modifications for use in grades 4-7 and in grades 8-10.

Speakers

Lisa Buchanan

Associate Professor of Education, Elon University

Cara Ward

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Denise Ousley Exum

Donyell Roseboro

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Tidewater A 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27493

All

4:00pm EDT

Inquiries in EPF and Scaffolding for All LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

This presentation will explore how inquiry-based instruction can be applied in Economics and Personal Finance classrooms, with a focus on scaffolding strategies for diverse student abilities. Participants will learn how inquiry can work for all learners by anticipating knowledge gaps, supporting vocabulary development, integrating technology, and engagement strategies. Through a combination of lecture, participation in engaging techniques, and sharing resources, educators will gain practical tools to enhance instructional planning and student engagement. This session is designed to empower teachers with effective strategies for implementing inquiry in social studies education.

Speakers

Lauren Welch

Isabelle Gold

Student Teacher

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Tanglewood 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27496

High, Religious Literacy Education | District, Religious Literacy Education

4:00pm EDT

Future Smart, Future Ready, Future Prepared: Kickstart Financial Literacy for Middle School Students LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

Financial education at an early age can lead to a positive outlook and equips students with the resources they need to be successful. Do your students have the financial skills they need to thrive beyond the classroom?  Educators in attendance will be provided access to digital resources that focus on personal finance and social studies. Resources are student-driven, standards-aligned, have assessments embedded into them, and are FREE. For best user experience, please bring a device.

Speakers

EVERFI

Education Success Specialist, EVERFI

EVERFI's FREE online activities cover critical life skills students need to be successful - college and career readiness, mental wellness, financial literacy, interpersonal skills, etc. The online lessons are self-guided and built-in assessments give teachers automatic feedback on... Read More →

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Tidewater B 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27494

Middle

4:00pm EDT

James Madison's World Impact: A Premier Pragmatic Politician LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT

Sandpiper

James Madison was frail, had a soft voice, and not healthy enough to fight in the Revolutionary War. He also treated people as property his entire adult life. Nonetheless, he was an incredible political pragmatist who contemporaries called "The Father of the Constitution" and was the driving force for 11+ Amendments to the Constitution. Additionally, we'll discuss 20+ annual scholarships for North Carolina Educators at a wide variety of 3-day Constitutional Seminars onsite at James Madison's Montpelier each year.

Speakers

Patrick Campbell

Center for the Constitution, Asst. Director, James Madison's Montpelier

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Sandpiper 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27495

Middle High

4:00pm EDT

New Antisemitism: The Mutation of Antisemitism and AntiZionism LIMITED

Thursday April 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT