Education
We Rule: Civics for all of US
We Rule: Civics for All of US is a new national civic education initiative from the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum/Center for Legislative Archives and the National Archives that promotes civic literacy and engagement. As part of this initiative the education team at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum/Center for Legislative Archives and educators across the National Archives will be providing teachers with programming, curricula, and exceptional field trip experiences both online and in-person.
Our interactive distance learning programs draw upon the vast holdings of the National Archives to promote the knowledge and skills students need for civic engagement in the 21st century.
Available Distance Learning Programs
● The Constitution Rules! for Grades K-2
In this 30-minute program, students will explore the idea of different responsibilities in their community and analyze images that highlight the jobs of the three branches of government as outlined in the Constitution.
● The Constitution and Our Community for Grades 3-5
In this 45-minute program, students will explore the idea of community, hone their primary source analysis skills by examining government records, and connect the Constitution to their own lives.
How to Request a Program
Live distance learning programs are available by request from the National Archives and Presidential Libraries. Programs are available Tuesdays–Fridays for groups of 10 or more students. The National Archives requires that the requesting educator or another educator from your institution be present during the student distance learning program to observe the session and support classroom management.
Please submit your request at least two weeks in advance and include the following information:
● School/Group name and location (city and state)
● Requested program
● Preferred dates and times for your program (please provide 2-3 options)
● Grade level
● Number of students
Email civics@nara.gov to request your program today!
Each program will be led by one of our educators located at National Archives sites and Presidential Libraries across the country. After submitting your program request, you will be connected to an available National Archives educator at one of our locations nationwide to finalize your reservation. You will also receive a teacher guide with additional pre- and post- program activities.
About We Rule: Civics for All of US
Using the diverse and varied historical documents and government records preserved by the National Archives and the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum/Center for Legislative Archives, the National Civics Education Initiative will deliver thought-provoking educational programs and powerful educational resources to students. These programs will be facilitated by National Archives educators across all locations, both onsite and through distance learning, engaging diverse communities regardless of their proximity to NARA facilities.
The initiative is built around five questions:
● What does an individual gain from being civically aware and engaged?
● What tools are available for individuals, and groups, to share and shape our democracy?
● How have these tools been used by others in the past?
● How can an ordinary individual use the tools in their own lives?
● How does the United States benefit from civic engagement?
These questions will guide students as they explore the big ideas of the founding documents and discover the power they have to make a difference as an important part of “We the People.”