What we teach about United States history and how we teach it have been at the center of intense political debates in recent years. While the goals of Mission US are grounded firmly in best practices of social studies education and professional historians, how Mission US will be received depends on the political and social environment in your school and larger community. As a history teacher, you are no doubt familiar with and already navigating these challenges in your local context. Nevertheless, it is helpful to take a moment to reflect on how the approach to history offered by Mission US, which centers the cultivation of historical empathy and a rigorous look at the country’s struggles to realize its ideals, will be received by students, families, school administrators, and the community.
Many teachers take a proactive approach to addressing concerns that might arise from students, parents, school administrators, or the larger community. The steps they take before introducing Mission US to their students may include: