We Rule: Civics for All of US
We Rule: Civics for All of US is a new education initiative from the National Archives that promotes civic literacy and engagement. We're providing teachers with programming, curricula, and exceptional field trip experiences both online and at our locations across the country.
Our civics programs empower young people to make a positive difference and improve the world they are inheriting. These programs draw upon the vast archival holdings of the National Archives housed in our nation’s capital, the presidential libraries, and at National Archives facilities nationwide to promote the knowledge, skills, and dispositions students need for civic engagement in the 21st century.
We are thrilled to offer new distance learning programs about the Constitution for elementary students and will add programs for middle and high school students in the coming year.
K-5 Civics Distance Learning Programs by Request
Live, interactive distance learning programs are available by request from the National Archives and Presidential Libraries free of charge. Programs are designed for grades K-2 and 3-5, and for groups of 10 or more students.
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
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. We require 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.
Programs are also offered as regularly scheduled interactive webinars. Registration is required but there is no minimum attendance prerequisite. During webinars, participants' cameras and microphones will be off. The chat box will be available to share student comments and questions directly with the National Archives educator.
About We Rule: Civics for All of US
Using the varied historical documents and government records preserved by the National Archives, the We Rule: Civics for All of US 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 National Archives 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."