About the Teaching American History Grants

$1.6 million in grants enables BSU to help local schools teach American history

Bridgewater State University has been awarded one of the largest competitive grants in the school's 143-year history. As part of a national program to promote the teaching of United States history in primary and secondary public schools, the U.S. Department of Education has made $1.6 million, in the form of two grants, available to BSU over the next six years.

Dr. Frances Jeffries, director of the Office of Grants and Sponsored Projects, suggested, "Since Sept. 11th, Americans have demonstrated a renewed interest in learning more about their own country. At the same time, professional educators increasingly need to concern themselves with the juggling not only broadening the curriculum, but also of preparing students to meet MCAS requirements and other standards."

The college's plan calls for greater collaboration between key faculty members and local public school teachers. Leading the charge is history professor Margaret Lowe, supported by faculty members and teacher specialists in the districts.

"This award is big news for the humanities," Dr. Jeffries said. "It will allow our faculty to incorporate some of their personal research interests into a different kind of classroom setting."

Two topics likely to be front-and-center as the plan takes shape are the role of women in American society, and the importance of aviation to U.S. history.

Though the official applicant for the first grant was the Plymouth School District and the second grant was Brockton, the grants will be administered at BSU. In all, 120-140 teachers in school districts in Southeastern Massachusetts will benefit directly from the award.

By posting teaching materials on the college's Web site, the potential of reaching more teachers is increased considerably.

The award will be used to offer a variety of professional development experiences for teachers, to develop an interactive multimedia Web portal and to sponsor regional events.

From BSU Office of Public Affairs

 

Last Modified: May 24, 2011