On Monday, May 8, 2017, ESE and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate will host the second annual civics literacy conference, this year entitled "Civic Engagement in a Connected World: Effective Practices for the Learners of Today and the Leaders ofTomorrow." The conference will explore how educators can help students navigate the challenges and opportunities of this age of digital revolution and global citizenship. Presenters will include K-12 educators as well as representatives from state, education, and community organizations. The event is free and will run from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Please plan to register early as space is limited.
Agenda
Speakers at the Opening Plenary will include Jean MacCormack, President of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute, James Peyser, Secretary of Education, and Mitchell Chester, Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education.
At the later morning plenary, following the first set of workshop sessions, Dr. Isa Kaftal Zimmerman will address the importance of digital literacy and making cross-curricular connections from her perspective as a teacher, district administrator, higher education faculty member, and long time advocate for technology in education.
During the mid-day Legislative Plenary, Senator Harriette Chandler, the Massachusetts Senate Majority Leader, will address conference participants from her perspective as a long-time leader in the Massachusetts Legislature on a host of issues including education.
Participants will attend workshop sessions during the morning and afternoon organized around the six strands identified as “Proven Practices” in the Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools report, Guardian of Democracy: the Civic Mission of Schools:
1. Instruction in government, history, economics, law, democracy
2. Discussion of current events and controversial issues
3. Service learning
4. Extracurricular activities
5. School governance
6. Simulations of the democratic process
Throughout the conference, participants will have the opportunity to experience the exhibits of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute, including an interactive digital tour and an interactive simulation of a Senate debate on a topic of current importance. They also may take time to experience the exhibits and other educational resources available at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum located next to the Institute. At the end of the day, participants will reconvene in the Senate Chamber to witness a re-enactment of selected scenes from a famous historic Senate debate.
We look forward to seeing you there!
