Currently accepting applications from Illinois teachers who want to bring public policy discussions into their high school classrooms
CHICAGO – The Illinois Humanities Council (IHC) announces the 11th Illinois Capitol Forum on America’s Future, a program that educates high school students about controversial international issues and difficult choices facing America in the 21st century. Social studies teachers guide the students through an analysis of five core issues: nuclear proliferation, human rights, genocide, immigration, and global economy and environment. This examination of issues prepares the students for a public forum in Springfield, where they engage with peers from across the state to debate these concerns and provide a voice in consideration of U.S. policy issues. Illinois teachers interested in participating can get the application online at www.prairie.org/CapitolForum or by calling 312.422.5580. The application deadline is September 28, 2009.
A national initiative of the Choices Program at Brown University, Capitol Forum provides the curriculum and venue for students to actively participate in civic dialogue about U.S. foreign policy and fashion their own informed vision for the future of America. Teachers who participate in the program receive free curriculum materials and training to engage whole classes in consideration of these major global issues.
Illinois is one of several states currently participating in Capitol Forum. Teachers and students appreciate how the program encourages civic engagement, supports analytical thinking, and brings together young adults from across the state to listen, to deliberate, and to communicate. The program meets state standards for social studies. Capitol Forum, a program of the Illinois Humanities Council, is sponsored by Secretary of State Jesse White and funded in part by the McCormick Foundation.
The Illinois Humanities Council (IHC) is a nonprofit educational organization [501 (c) 3] dedicated to fostering a culture in which the humanities are a vital part of the lives of individuals and communities. Organized in 1973 as the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the IHC creates programs and funds organizations that promote greater understanding of, appreciation for, and involvement in the humanities by all Illinoisans, regardless of their economic resources, cultural background, or geographic location. The IHC is supported by state, federal, and private funds.
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