Social Studies Newsflash September 2024

Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction sent this bulletin at 09/16/2024 09:00 AM PDT

Watch for Our Next Newsletter

Final Reminder: 2023-2024 Instruction and Assessment Reporting Requirements for Social Studies
2024-25 OSPI Civics Education Training Offerings
WSCSS Fall Conference - Registration Open!

Final Reminder: 2023-2024 Instruction and Assessment Reporting Requirements for Social Studies

Purpose/ Background

Elementary, middle, and high schools are required to have assessments in place for students to learn essential academic learning requirements in Social Studies in the areas of history, geography, civics and economics. Additionally, there is a requirement that students in the fourth or fifth grade, seventh or eighth grade, and the eleventh or twelfth grade complete at least one Classroom-Based Assessment (CBA) developed by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), or district supported alternative, in civics. These OSPI-Developed assessments can be found on the OSPI Social Studies website.

Social Studies Assessments Reporting

OSPI is taking a new approach to support districts in meeting the requirements outlined in law. To meet the legislative reporting requirement for Social Studies, Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) will attest if they have met the requirements of RCW 28A.230.095 Sections (1) and (2) through the 2023-24 Social Studies Instructional & Assessment Reporting Survey. This survey can only be completed once per LEA.

In order to support maximum response the due date has changed. The information for the 2023-24 school year must be submitted no later than September 30, 2024.

2024-25 OSPI Civics Education Training Offerings

OSPI is excited to host a set of trainings and professional learning experiences to support Civic Education in Washington State. The goal of these offerings is to increase teacher's knowledge and skills to effectively engage students in civics education, and ensure students have a basic understand of how governments work and know their rights and responsibilities to be prepared to exercise them. These trainings are free to attend and include clock hours. Below are our initial offerings: (More to come!)

This Week! - Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning with Teach Democracy. - Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024 from 5-6pm. Click here to register on pdEnroller.
The What and Why of Social Studies: K-5 with Dr. Terry Beck. - Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024 from 4-5pm. Click here to register on pdEnroller.
Improving Civic Discourse: Bring local politics into your classroom with TVW. Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024 from 4-5pm. Click here to register on pdEnroller.
What Are You Talking About? Defining Terms in Media Literacy with Lesley James, OSPI Media Literacy and Digital Citizenship. Monday, Oct. 7, 2024 from 4-5pm. Click here to register on pdEnroller.

Take advantage of these engaging opportunities to learn more about the many ways to engage in civic education. If you have any questions, please contact Andrew Miller, the Associate Director of Social Studies at andrew.miller@k12.wa.us.

WSCSS Fall Conference - Registration Open!

WSCSS is thrilled to gather at Chinook Middle School on October 12, 2024 for a day filled with inspiring sessions, engaging discussions, and the opportunity to connect with fellow educators who share your passion for social studies. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this conference promises to be a valuable experience.

Theme: This year's theme is "Civil Discourse in the Classroom: Cultivating Respectful Dialogue." As educators, fostering an environment where civil discourse thrives is more important than ever, especially in light of the upcoming election season. Choose from more than 15 dynamic learning sessions that will provide valuable learning you can take back to your classroom.

Benefits:

Light Breakfast & Lunch
15+ Sessions – WSCSS Fall Presenters & Sessions
Earn up to 6 Clock Hours – many earn CCDEI clock hours
Dedicated Day of courses for Pre-service Teachers
Full Day of Courses to support K-12 Instruction

Cost:

$150 – Educators & $50 for Pre-Service Teachers

Click here to learn more and register!

ALL STUDENTS PREPARED FOR POST-SECONDARY PATHWAYS, CAREERS, AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT.

Led by State Superintendent Chris Reykdal, OSPI oversees K-12 public education in Washington state. Our mission is to provide funding, resources, tools, data and technical assistance that enable educators to ensure students succeed in our public schools, are prepared to access post-secondary training and education, and are equipped to thrive in their careers and lives.

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OSPI provides equal access to all programs and services without discrimination based on sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Questions and complaints of alleged discrimination should be directed to the Equity and Civil Rights Director, P.O. Box 47200, Olympia, WA 98504-7200, 360-725-6162 (TTY: 360-664-3631), equity@k12.wa.us.

This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider.