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January 10, 2026

The APEX grant proudly hosted its inaugural in-person professional learning event—Gilder Lehrman Symposium 1: Life in Colonial America in the Lead-Up to the Revolution—and what an inspiring start it was!

Educators explored the everyday lives of Patriots, Loyalists, and undecided colonists, examining the arguments for and against independence and how these choices shaped political, social, and economic life in colonial America.

We were honored to learn from historian Rebecca Brannon, associate professor at James Madison University, whose scholarship brings powerful insight into the Loyalist experience during and after the Revolution.

The day continued with elementary and secondary breakout sessions led by master teachers from the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, including Tim Bailey and Jim Coe—connecting rich historical content directly to classroom practice.

60 educators
9 Virginia school districts
One shared commitment to inquiry-driven history instruction!

This was just the beginning—and we can’t wait for what’s ahead!

Explore. Engage. Elevate.