Vision 

A world where every student is empowered to pursue lifelong inquiry and engage in informed civic action.

Mission

The Secondary Social Studies Program integrates the social sciences to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to become confident, responsible, and civically engaged stewards of their communities in our democratic society.

Core Values 

The Social Studies Program establishes a coherent framework for instruction that supports academic rigor, civic literacy, and inclusive learning across grade levels. The program is designed to align with state standards and inquiry-based instructional practices that prepare students for informed participation in a pluralistic democratic society.

• Inquiry and Critical Thinking. Social studies instruction is grounded in disciplined inquiry. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources, evaluate evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and communicate reasoned conclusions about historical and contemporary issues.

• Civil Literacy and Engagement. The program provides structured opportunities for students to examine civic issues, understand democratic processes, and practice informed decision-making. Instruction will support the development of civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions appropriate to each grade level.

• Cultural Understanding and Civic Discourse. Instruction reflects diverse histories, cultures, and perspectives. Students will engage in respectful dialogue, apply historical context, and develop empathy and tolerance necessary for participation in a pluralistic society.

• Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environments. The program promotes inclusive instructional practices that ensure all students have equitable access to learning. Classrooms will support student voice, intellectual risk-taking, and social-emotional well-being as essential components of effective social studies instruction.

• Individual Achievement and Collective Responsibility. The program supports academic growth while fostering an understanding of shared civic responsibility. Through inquiry-based projects and civic learning experiences, students will connect classroom learning to community and the common good.