This Educator Institute uncovers the global and historical ideas that informed the framing of the U.S. Constitution. Participants will investigate the historical impact of ancient philosophers and Enlightenment thinkers on the founding generation, and how those influences shaped the structure of government, the separation of powers, and other constitutional protections that remain essential today.
Using resources like the Interactive Constitution, primary source documents, and immersive scholar sessions, teachers will analyze the origins of key constitutional concepts and discover ways to help students examine where ideas come from and how they evolve. They will also get to explore the Center’s exhibit spaces, including two new exhibits on America’s founding and the separation of powers and federalism. Educators will return to their classrooms with curated resources that connect big ideas in history to present-day constitutional questions.
This institute is designed for educators teaching grades 5-12 and runs from 4 p.m. on Sunday through noon on Friday. Some meals will be provided, and a stipend will be available to help offset travel and lodging costs. Participants are expected to attend all scheduled sessions and complete a final classroom project as part of the Institute experience. Please review the NCC’s Guide to Educator Institutes for full details before applying.
Apply now to join the Intellectual Inspirations of the Constitution Educator Institute. Applications are due no later than Friday, January 23, 2026. Notification regarding application status will be sent by Friday, February 20, 2026.
