Facing History’s Approach to Fostering Civil Discourse for Educators

This in-person workshop features resources, strategies, and tools to foster civil discourse and navigate challenging topics, such as antisemitism.

Engaging in civil discourse means bringing your mind, heart, and conscience to reflective conversations on topics that matter, in ways that allow you to extend your understanding while in dialogue with others. Utilizing the Fostering Civil Discourse Guide, participants will learn about Facing History’s pedagogical approach, practice teaching strategies for creating a “brave and safe space” for critical and courageous conversations, and explore the importance of identity and its connection to discussing complex and challenging topics. Sessions will include modeling how to apply these strategies and resources to address the growth of antisemitism in our schools.

Participants will:

– Learn about strategies and materials designed to foster civil discourse and navigate challenging conversations in the classroom
– Explore resources that prepare educators to teach about current events
– Have an opportunity to discuss and practice strategies with other educators in addressing complex and challenging topics.

This offering is for: Educators teaching 6th–12th grade who want to incorporate tools and strategies designed to help teachers hold meaningful and productive conversations with their students about public policies, controversial issues, and current events. It is also relevant for school and district curriculum specialists and instructional coaches who may be working with educators doing this work.

Format: This event will be held in person in Rosslyn, VA. A full address and directions will be provided by email when your registration is confirmed

Schedule: Live sessions will take place from 9 AM to 3 PM on Friday, June 12th, 2026. Light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Time Commitment: Approximately 6 hours (with breaks)

Cost: We charge a processing fee of $25 when your application has been accepted. Additional costs for this event have been covered by generous funding from Facing History & Ourselves donors and partner organizations.

Register by May 29, 2026 using this link: https://695370/learning-events/facing-historys-approach-fostering-civil-discourse-educators

Questions? Reach out to support@facinghistory.org.

This event qualifies for a Certificate of Completion. At the conclusion of the event, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion for 6 hour(s) of attendance. Certificates may be submitted for a school’s or district’s approval toward professional development credits. Requirements for professional development credits vary by state. It is the participant’s responsibility to ensure that they are meeting the requirements of their school, organization, and/or state.