Montclair State University announced that it has been awarded a $1.7 million American History and Civics Seminars Program grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
This award will help its efforts to uplift educators and promote new and innovative instruction that will be accessible to all learners.
The grant will also enable Montclair State to fund NJ250: Civics and History for the Next Generation, a three-year project that includes two initiatives: a Teacher Fellowship Program and Civics Videos. Applications are now open for the fellowship program.
The award, part of the U.S. Department of Education’s American History and Civics Seminars Program, reflects a commitment to strengthening civics education nationwide. Montclair is the only New Jersey institution to receive an award from the $153 million National Activities grant.
“At Montclair State University, we believe that preparing all learners to be informed, engaged citizens is one of the most essential roles a public-serving institution can fulfill in our society,” said President Jonathan Koppell.
“As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, this work is more urgent than ever. We are honored to lead efforts that will equip educators and students alike to reflect on the principles and values of American democracy, so they can be informed and active citizens engaged in the responsibilities of self-government.”
Efforts from the American History and Civics Seminars Program will coincide with the United States’ Semiquincentennial, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. Funding from the grant will support:
- Seminar-based instruction grounded in founding texts and constitutional principles
- The creation of short- and long-form educational resources to enhance civics learning for students and the broader public
- School and community events fostering civil discourse on public issues related to foundational American principles
- Locally developed curricular resources that meet state academic content standards
