SFA’s Department of Education Studies, National Constitution Center to host civic education conference

NACOGDOCHES, Texas -- Stephen F. Austin State University's Department of Education Studies, in partnership with the National Constitution Center, will host "Past as Prologue: Teaching the Civic Story of the United States" from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Early Childhood Laboratory. This professional learning event is designed for preservice and in-service educators who are passionate about civic education, storytelling and social studies teaching.

Dr. Sarah Straub, associate professor in SFA's Department of Education Studies and event organizer, emphasized the importance of this partnership.

"Prior to this upcoming event, our collaboration with the National Constitution Center has created incredible opportunities for both our preservice teachers and alumni," Straub said. "Through funded professional development experiences in Philadelphia and Austin, our students have seen firsthand how civic engagement and history can come alive through storytelling and accessible, meaningful teaching. This partnership helps prepare educators who are not only knowledgeable, but inspired to connect the past to the present in powerful ways."

The event will feature keynote speaker Dr. Court Carney, professor in SFA's Department of History, who will present "That Ribbon of Highway: How Music and Art Shape Our Civic Imagination." Drawing from folk music, popular culture and public memory, Carney will explore how creative forms of expression can illuminate the civic narratives of the United States and empower students to see themselves within the American story.

Participants also will engage in workshops led by Ryan Beaudoin, professional learning specialist at the National Constitution Center. Beaudoin brings over 13 years of classroom and adult learning experience, designing professional development that fosters civil dialogue, teacher empowerment and instructional innovation.

"Civic education thrives when we connect history to human experience," Beaudoin said. "By weaving storytelling, art and civic dialogue together, teachers can help students imagine themselves as active participants in our nation's democracy."

The event is free and open to the public. For more information or to register, visit the event's webpage.