monthly-highlights

As August kicks off and TK–12 students, teachers, and school administrators across California return for a new school year, it’s an important time to reflect on the privilege of education. While this may feel like a lecture to the lecturers, teaching students that education has historically been a battleground—and not a given—is an important lesson that can easily fall through the cracks.

September holds special significance for both California and Mexico. On September 9, 1850, California was admitted to the Union as a free state under the Compromise of 1850. September also marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15 in recognition of the independence anniversaries of five Latin American countries.  This year, we encourage educators to highlight Mexico, which celebrates its independence on September 16. Mexico’s eleven-year War of Independence from Spain began on September 16, 1810, and ended on September 27, 1821.

Three weeks ago, the United States of America celebrated its 250th anniversary. At the same time, the California History-Social Science Project wrapped up a week-long teacher institute focused on civic learning and engagement, as part of our three-year Foundations of Freedom program.