The invaluable expertise of classroom teachers is the foundation of effective civic education, as demonstrated by three veteran educators who share their experiences developing curriculum that truly engages students.

• Teachers know their students better than anyone, allowing them to create curriculum that addresses knowledge gaps
• Post-COVID classrooms present unique challenges that only current teachers fully understand
• Teachers should not shy away from controversial topics but instead use primary sources to help students form opinions
• Professional networks and connections significantly enhance teaching effectiveness
• "Chunking" lessons into 12-15 minute segments keeps students engaged, especially in today's attention-challenged environment
• Administrators must trust teachers' judgment and provide meaningful support
• Teacher-developed curriculum is more practical and effective than lessons created by those distant from classrooms
• Building mentor relationships is crucial for new teachers facing the challenges of the profession

Want to expand your professional network? Reach out to Liz Evans at lizevans@asu.edu to connect with experienced educators who can support your civic education journey.

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