National Award Recognizes Excellence in Teaching the U.S. Constitution and American Government

Strategic Insights -

Teachers Shae Parks from Delaware, Phillip Wrigley from Kansas, and Robert Schulte from New Jersey have been recognized for their outstanding work in preparing young people to become informed and engaged citizens. The Academic Excellence in Teaching the Constitution Award (ACETA) winners will be featured in a documentary and webinars throughout the year, and will participate in a special panel session during the 2025 American Constitution Live! event in Washington. The awards aim to promote exceptional expertise, dynamism, and creativity in motivating students to learn about the Constitution, the U.S. government, and public policy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Shae Parks from Delaware, Phillip Wrigley from Kansas, and Robert Schulte from New Jersey have been awarded the Academic Excellence in Teaching the Constitution Award (ACETA) for their exceptional work in teaching civics and government.
  • The three awardees share a passion for explaining democracy and citizenship in an engaging way and helping young people see the relevance of local, state, and federal government to their lives.
  • Parks creates lifelong connections between students and the world around them, preparing students to take action towards making the world better.
  • Wrigley's students learn that they can shape governments through field trips, news analyses, letter writing, and simulations.
  • Schulte teaches media literacy and civil discourse, encouraging students to research and make informed decisions on political issues.
  • ACETA is sponsored by the Center for Civic Education, the Center on Representative Government at Indiana University, and the National Education Association.
  • The winners will be featured in a documentary and webinars throughout the year, and will participate in a special panel session during the 2025 American Constitution Live! event in Washington.

Statistics:

  • Three teachers have been recognized with the Academic Excellence in Teaching the Constitution Award (ACETA).
  • The ACETA selection process involves submitting a self-portrait essay, a resume, and two letters of recommendation.
  • There is no fee to apply for the ACETA award.
  • The Center for Civic Education, the Center on Representative Government, and the National Education Association sponsor the ACETA award.

Sources:

  • Center for Civic Education
  • Center on Representative Government
  • National Education Association