Constitution in the Headlines

Future of Birthright Citizenship: SCOTUS Preview 

On May 15, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in a case challenging the constitutionality of President Trump’s executive order which seeks to end birthright citizenship for the children of undocumented immigrants. While this case raises big constitutional questions about the scope of the 14th Amendment’s citizenship clause, the Court will likely focus on a narrower procedural issue: whether lower courts can block a policy nationwide. 

Using clips from a new America’s Town Hall and curated discussion questions, encourage your students to explore whether the executive order violates the citizenship clause of the 14th Amendment.

Last Chance to Enter: Giveaway Closes Tonight

Win a Curated Set of America 250-Inspired Books During Teacher Appreciation Week

To say thank you during Teacher Appreciation Week—and to help you feel inspired and ready to teach about the 250th anniversary in 2026—we’re giving away five curated sets of America 250-inspired books by renowned scholars.

The giveaway is open until Sunday, May 11 at 12 a.m. ET. All you need to do is submit your contact information and answer three short answer questions about your plans to teach the 250th.

Apply to Join Our Teacher Advisory Council

The National Constitution Center Teacher Advisory Council (TAC) is a professional learning community of educators who collaborate with the Center to share best practices for teaching constitutional, historical, and civics topics.

Members of the Teacher Advisory Council receive a yearly stipend for their valuable time and professional advice. Applications are open until May 31.

TAC members have the opportunity to:

• Build community with fellow educators in a nationwide professional learning community
• Facilitate professional development opportunities and conference presentations with members of the Center’s Education team
• Participate in virtual and on-site programs exclusive to members of the Center’s educator networks
• Support in shaping the Center’s nonpartisan educational materials and programs

What TAC Educators Are Saying:

“In joining the Teacher Advisory Council, I am contributing to developing resources and programs that help teachers effectively connect these concepts with students’ everyday lives. This role has offered a great opportunity for professional growth and collaboration with fellow educators committed to enhancing civic learning.” –Mike A., eighth grade world history teacher, Florida

Weekend Workshop Applications Close May 16

⭐ Share this Opportunity With Educators in Your School or Network

Apply to a Weekend Workshop at the NCC to deepen your knowledge of the Constitution and how it has been used by different groups throughout history to enact change.

Fall dates and themes:

• September 19–21 | Women and the Constitution 
• October 24–26 | African Americans and the Constitution 
• November 14–16 | Native Americans and the Constitution, in partnership with Retro Report

Application criteria:

• This set of Weekend Workshops is only open to applicants in rural, remote, or underserved communities. Others may apply, but preference will be given to applicants who meet this requirement.

The Center covers the costs of all travel to the National Constitution Center, lodging, and meals for those selected to participate, but space is limited to no more than 15 educators. Applications are open now until May 16.

Reserve Your 2025-2026 Civic Calendar

Our America 250 commemorative 2025-2026 Civic Calendar will support the classroom instruction of key historical dates, events, and themes that led up to the 1776 signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Each month offers free educational resources and discussion questions to engage learners about both its history and its relevance today.

Fill out the request form to ensure you receive a free copy of the 2025-2026 Civic Calendar. Requests will be fulfilled and shipped in September 2025.

Upcoming Events in May

🗓️ America's Town Hall: Constitutional Meaning in the Shadow of the Articles of Confederation

Online | Monday, May 12 | 11 a.m.–4:15 p.m. ET

The Brennan Center for Justice and the National Constitution Center present a symposium exploring how the Articles of Confederation shaped the U.S. Constitution. Historians, legal scholars, and journalists will examine the legacy of the Articles of Confederation, the founding debates over federal power, and the lasting influence of these debates on constitutional interpretation today.

🗓️ Live Student Programs: Signers Hall Virtual Tour

Online | Monday, May 19 | Noon ET

Join us for a tour of Signers’ Hall, the iconic exhibit featuring life-size statues of the 42 men who gathered in Philadelphia on May 25, 1787, for the opening of the Constitutional Convention.

🗓️ Free Professional Learning: Civility at the Founding

Online | Wednesday, May 21 | 6:30–8 p.m. ET

Close out the academic year by exploring the historical and constitutional significance of civility as a concept. During this session, participants will dive into broader themes, connect classroom lessons to historical perspectives, and gain strategies to set an engaging, thought-provoking tone for the next academic year.

Connect With Us

Constitution 101 | Professional Learning | Virtual Student Programs | Events Calendar 

About the National Constitution Center’s Educational Resources 

The National Constitution Center provides K-12 curriculum, professional learning, and student programs that make constitutional education engaging and relevant. Learn more at: constitutioncenter.org/education.

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