Philosophy & Mission Statement

The study of social studies is a process that develops from Kindergarten through high school. This development helps learners understand their place in the world, and their roles and responsibilities as engaged citizens. The study of history is important to learners, because past events provide context for understanding present and future challenges.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) will provide opportunities for active exploration and critical evaluation of complex and diverse social studies issues through proficiency in the FNSBSD graduate-level competencies, which emphasize decision-making and problem-solving experiences for learners. Competency-based learning refers to systems of instruction, assessment, and grading that are based on learners demonstrating the knowledge and skills they are expected to learn as they progress through their education. Competencies include explicit, measurable, and transferable learning objectives that empower students. Learning outcomes emphasize competencies that include application and creation of knowledge, along with development of important skills and dispositions.

The core curriculum encompasses the social studies strands of history, geography, civics/government, economics, and cultural studies. The study of Alaska, United States, and the world includes multicultural perspectives and an understanding of global interdependence. Civics and economic strands are grounded in competencies that empower students to be engaged members of their community, and to master the processes necessary to function in an information-rich, global society. All courses will recognize the danger of stereotyping and bias, and acknowledge the contributions of historically marginalized groups.

Central themes and skills will be carried across a coherent and relevant K-12 continuum with common graduate-level competencies, taught at various levels, as the core goal. Grade/course competencies provide the specific pathways for learners to reach proficiency. While the grade/course level competencies are required, the units and content objectives provided are suggested pathways that move learners toward competency and the achievement of performance indicators.

Acknowledgements

Department of Teaching & Learning

Melanie Hadaway – Executive Director of Teaching & Learning

Michelle Daml – Elementary Curriculum Coordinator

Kristina Roehrig – Secondary Curriculum Coordinator

Jennifer Morgan – Materials Development Specialist

We would also like to recognize

the Curriculum Advisory Committee, the Fairbanks North Star Borough Board of Education, and the many teachers, administrators, parents, and community members who have so willingly given of their time and expertise in the planning and revision process of this document.