UT’s Institute of American Civics to host 125 teachers for TN Civics Academy
In a major initiative to strengthen civic education across the state, the Institute of American Civics at the University of Tennessee will host the Tennessee Civics Academy, a two-day professional development workshop welcoming 125 high school teachers from 85 schools across 36 counties.
Held in Knoxville on June 24 and 25, the program will immerse educators in foundational topics such as American founding principles, U.S. Constitutional rights, economic theory, landmark Supreme Court decisions, and the history of American education, equipping attendees with tools to enrich civic learning in classrooms statewide.
“Our history and civics teachers play a crucial role in developing the knowledge and skills in students necessary for a life of effective citizenship,” said IAC Executive Director Josh Dunn. “It’s an honor for us to support them in their work. The Tennessee Civics Academy is a highlight of our year in the IAC.”
Now in its third year, the Tennessee Civics Academy provides a space for educators to discuss ways to foster and teach civic education topics and nurture civic engagement and viewpoint diversity among Tennessee high school students. Nominated teachers represent rural, urban, and suburban districts to discuss student engagement strategies, classroom challenges, and opportunities to promote healthy discussion, viewpoint diversity, civil discourse, and share cross-disciplinary project-based learning activities. UT schools provide content-rich presentations in a range of subject areas.
Educational Outreach Program Manager Frankie Nicole Weaver coordinates the Academy, including a capstone internship program with Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies. Sixteen Knox County high school students and six university student leaders have assisted in preparing for the workshop while also building career readiness skills.
In addition to the presentations and panel sessions, the teachers will have the opportunity to attend a Tennessee Smokies game and network with supporting organizations, including the Tennessee State Museum, Tennessee 4-H Youth Development, Tennessee History Day, Sphere Education Initiatives, iCivics, the Coolidge Medal of Honor Heritage Center, Youth in Government, and others. Support for teachers attending the Academy has been provided by Regions Foundation of Tennessee.
About the Institute of American Civics
The Institute of American Civics, housed within the Howard H. Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is dedicated to advancing civic knowledge, constitutional understanding, and civil discourse. Established to serve as a hub for scholarship, public education, and community engagement, the Institute promotes the values and principles at the heart of American democracy. The Institute seeks to cultivate informed and engaged citizens through a dynamic blend of academic programming, public events, and outreach initiatives. Visit civics.utk.edu for more information.