Educator Institutes

Join educators from across the country for an engaging professional learning experience that blends content, pedagogy, and community. The National Constitution Center offers a trusted, nonpartisan space to deepen your knowledge of the Constitution while exploring innovative strategies for teaching civics and history. 

The National Constitution Center will proudly serve as an anchor of the nation’s 250th celebrations this summer in Philadelphia. It was in Philadelphia in 1776, that the Declaration of Independence was signed, forever altering the course of human freedom. The city—and the museums and institutions that enliven its historic center, such as the National Constitution Center—stand as both shrine and classroom, a place where history comes alive. 

We are excited to offer educators four incredible opportunities to engage with us: 

• June 14-19, 2026 – The Legacy of the Declaration of Independence
• June 21-26, 2026 – Principles of America at 250 
• July 12-17, 2026 – Intellectual Inspirations of the Constitution 
• July 20-24, 2026 – Landmark Supreme Court Cases

During the institutes, we:

• Build a strong foundation by exploring the Constitution’s text and history with a focus on telling stories from the founding to present day 
• Explore how to help students separate their political views from their constitutional views—asking not what the government should do, but what it constitutionally may do 
• Review civil dialogue protocols and resources focused on embedding nonpartisan civil dialogue practices in the classroom 
• Connect with fellow educators from across the country to share resources, ideas, and perspectives 

Institutes are open to educators working with grades 5–12 at public, charter, independent, parochial, and other schools. The institutes are Sunday – Friday. Stipends are offered to cover a portion of travel and lodging costs. Some lunches and dinners are also provided during the institute. With a balance of structured sessions, collaborative discussions, and informal networking, the Educator Institutes create a supportive community and transformative learning experience.

Participants in the Educator Institutes are expected to fully engage in the program as members of a collaborative learning community. All attendees must take part in all scheduled sessions and activities as outlined on the Institute agenda by the National Constitution Center. Throughout the Institute, participants will work toward the creation of a classroom-ready project that applies the context and resources explored during the program to their own teaching practice.

Further details regarding expectations, lodging, sample schedule, and participation guidelines can be found in the NCC’s Guide to Educator Institutes.

Applications are due no later than Friday, January 23, 2026. Notification regarding application status will be sent by Friday, February 20, 2026.