African American History | Presidential

In the opening week, we will identify the importance of alternate interpretations of history through lecture and group discussion and how those interpretations can change according to group perspectives. Topics will include: African American status throughout history; the role of modern education in African American knowledge and identity; the cultural impact of conflict over African American citizenship; and how educational practices have alienated the African American from modern civic participation.

Through lecture, group work, and guest speakers we will you will discover African American identity through challenges from the past and present. Through Group work, we will recognize the challenges and importance of unity and develop approaches for increasing civic engagement that overcome African American historical experiences of assimilation and acculturation. We will l explore the role of systemic racism in the political process, as African Americans move to establish their own political agenda in the 20th and 21st century. We conclude on high note looking at the contribution to democracy through jazz.

On Friday, we embark on the first PBE learning trip to Chicago, IL visiting a museum and other historical sites.

We prepare for and participate in the second PBE learning trip to St. Louis, MO, where we will visit museums, national historic parks, and other historical sites.

The program culminates with the Presidential Academy Showcase. You will present your lesson plan that you have developed demonstrating integration of your learning over the three weeks.