Welcoming Words

Learn about the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of welcome for new immigrants, and think about what it means to welcome others in this literaturebased program.

Future Senator

Should the school day be longer? Explore this issue with the help of WGBH’s FETCH! with Ruff Ruffman, and “expert witnesses”. Make persuasive arguments, and cast your vote.

Pathways to Citizenship

Students are charged with building a bill that defines a pathway to citizenship for four groups of undocumented immigrants: DREAMers, farm workers, refugees, and a general undocumented population. Students begin the program by learning about an immigrant’s journey to citizenship. They then work in sub-committees to choose criteria for each groups' pathway to citizenship. 

Pathways to Environmental Justice

Students learn about the challenges posed by climate change and work together to build a bill that focuses on climate-friendly economic and community solutions.

Real Life Civics

Employing dramatic real life examples, this virtual program takes an accessible look at how the U.S. government operates within a framework of traditions, laws, constitutional language and principles, and current practice. 

Today's Vote

Students participate in a simulated U.S. Senate session and a live floor debate on an important legislative issue. They will consider multiple perspectives, share their own ideas, and cast their votes. See our website for topics.  

Senate Immersion Module

Using high-touch technology on tablets provided by the Institute, groups of students work together as Senators for the day to create a bill on a historic issue or current policies affecting the country. 

Conference Committee

This simulation puts students in the role of a member of the Senate or House of Representatives engaged in Conference Committee, the process Congress uses to reconcile differences the two chambers may have on a bill.