The Social Studies Professional | August 6, 2024 | No. 428
As we approach a new school year, NCSS President Jennifer Morgan reflects on recent professional development opportunities, media discussions, and challenges in the classroom.
NCSS 2024 Student Scholarship Recipients
2024 1787 Prize Recipients
High Tech High School, Secaucus, NJ
Coleen Summer Santos
David Volonte
Coleen is greatly interested in pursuing political science or pre-law in her undergraduate years, later advancing to law school and a career in immigration law. She is also passionate about criminal law, environmental law, and civil litigation. Coleen's overarching goal is to help as many people as possible using her voice and political knowledge.
"I am honored to receive this year's 1787 Prize alongside David. It is incredibly important for all Americans to be civically educated, and I hope that our essay aids in educating people on our country's past, present, and future."
David is passionate about global affairs, American politics, and humanitarian issues. He hopes to study international relations and sociology in college, possibly pursue a career in the fields of diplomacy, law, or government: somewhere he can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people around the world.
"I am incredibly grateful to have been named recipient of this year's 1787 Prize with my co-author Coleen! It is my hope that our essay can encourage young Americans to think critically about the actions of our government. A special shoutout to my mom for always supporting me, and to Mr. Nocum, the coolest AP US History Teacher ever. "
2024 Rho Kappa Scholarship Recipient
Caroline Queener
St. Anne-Pacelli Rho Kappa Social Studies National Honor Society
As President of Student Council of St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School, Caroline led initiatives for her school to become more civic and global minded, serving as the Founder and President of their inaugural Rho Kappa chapter. After discovering the Seva Foundation, Caroline created a project promoting their mission on a local and global scale.
This project included a yearlong research paper, a "Yoga For Sight" Event, and a documentary screening. Through her efforts, Caroline raised enough awareness to restore sight to 25 blind people in Guatemala with a surgery that only costs $50 and takes 15 minutes. Caroline will be attending the University of South Carolina majoring in Neuroscience, Pre-Optometry with acceptance into their prestigious Honors College, and has earned the USC Superlative Scholarship.
"At the core of Social Studies is empowerment and at the core of Neuroscience is helping others. Around every corner of all my involvements, there is a community, and empowering your community, your people, is what matters most."
Accelerate student engagement at the start of the school year with free-to-access activities that inspire deeper learning and curiosity in your social studies classroom.
Sponsored by Bloomsbury/ABC-CLIO
Prioritizing Students with Disabilities in AI Policy – Policy Brief
NCSS is proud to be a part of the Educating All Learners Alliance (EALA). Recently, EALA and New America developed a policy paper discussing civil rights considerations and protections necessary for students with disabilities in the age of AI. This paper aims to equip policymakers of all levels, from local school boards to national education departments, with the knowledge and insights necessary to leverage AI technologies effectively and equitably. Read it now here.
NCSS Leaders at the Smithsonian National Education Summit
NCSS Executive Director Lawrence M. Paska and NCSS President Jennifer Morgan recently presented at the Smithsonian National Education Summit. Their session, Finding your Voice, Telling Your Story, examined personal family artifacts to tell a story of American immigration. View the session recording here.
Submissions Due August 15 for NAMLE Awards
Every year, NCSS partner National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) strives to honor individuals and organizations who have exhibited impactful service, practice, or efforts that have greatly impacted the media literacy community and beyond. This year’s awards will be presented during the 10th Annual U.S. Media Literacy Week. Submit a nomination now.
