Successful implementation of the content standards, curriculum development, and instruction depend on teacher preparation and on long-term professional development. As described in the History-Social Science Framework, ongoing professional development should be planned for all teachers who teach the social sciences and should take place locally and regularly. Effective professional development is long-term and focused on increasing teachers' knowledge of and practice in the social sciences and their ability to teach the included courses. All professional development programs in the social sciences should emphasize the effective implementation of the state content standards, the guidelines presented in the framework, and training on the use of state-adopted kindergarten through grade eight history-social science instructional materials.
General Social Science
The Buck Institute for Education (BIE) (Outside Source)
BIE is a non-profit research and development organization working to make schools and classrooms more effective through the use of problem and project based learning. BIE creates curriculum and training materials, provides professional development, and conducts and disseminates research.
California Council for History Education (CCHE) (Outside Source)
CCHE is the California ally of the National Council for History Education (Outside Source). The CCHE was established in 2005 in order to advance the study and teaching of history in schools throughout California, provide a program of professional activities for history educators in California, and promote professional interaction among history educators in California.
California Council for the Social Studies (CCSS) (Outside Source)
CCSS is a non-profit professional organization serving both public and private school educators, and is the leading voice for quality social studies education in California. This organization is affiliated with the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) (Outside Source). CCSS promotes and supports social studies education through service, advocacy and leadership development. They are collectively committed to the strengthening and teaching of the social studies discipline though professional development, public awareness and collaboration at local, state, and national levels.
California’s History-Social Science Project (CHSSP) (Outside Source)
CHSSP is one of California's Subject Matter Projects and provides high quality professional development for educators at the pre-kindergarten through post-secondary levels. Participation in CHSSP fosters the development of knowledgeable history-social science educators who take responsibility for the development and implementation of standards-based comprehensive and sequential programs in history-social science at every educational level. CHSSP local programs and activities are designed to deepen teachers' knowledge of history, geography, civics, and economics, and enhance teachers' instructional strategies in the teaching of those disciplines.
American History
American Historical Association (Outside Source)
The American Historical Association (AHA) encompasses every historical period and geographical area and serves professional historians in all areas of employment.
Teaching American History (TAH) Grant Program (Outside Source)
TAH
is a program designed to raise student achievement by improving teachers’ knowledge and understanding of and appreciation for traditional U.S. history. Grant awards will assist local educational agencies, in partnership with entities that have content expertise, to develop, document, evaluate, and disseminate innovative and cohesive models of professional development. By helping teachers to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of U.S. history as a separate subject matter within the core curriculum, these programs will improve instruction and raise student achievement.
World History
American Historical Association (Outside Source)
The American Historical Association (AHA) encompasses every historical period and geographical area and serves professional historians in all areas of employment.
California World History Association (Outside Source)
The California World History Association is an affiliate of the World History Association. This organization is dedicated to supporting the scholarship and teaching of world history in California and the West Coast.
Global Exploration for Educators Organization (GEEO) (Outside Source)
GEEO is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to helping educators travel internationally and bring their experiences back into the classroom. Visit GEEO's Web site to find out more about upcoming travel opportunities.
Economics
California Council on Economic Education (CCEE) (Outside Source)
CCEE is a statewide network that leads in advancing the economic literacy of the people of California. Their goal is to help students become successful participants in the global economy.
Civics Education
California – We the People (Outside Source)
This organization is a component of a national civic education program developed and administered by the Center for Civic Education. They offer professional development workshops, content seminars, and institutes for teachers and community based organizations throughout the school year and during the summer.
Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools (Outside Source)
This organization is a coalition of 40 organizations nationwide that is committed to improving the quality and quantity of civic learning in our nation’s schools.
Financial Literacy
Financial Literacy Resources
Superintendent O'Connell highlights supplemental resources to help parents, students, and educators ensure that California's next generation of consumers are financially responsible.
International Studies
International and Area Studies (Outside Source)
The Office of Resources for International and Area Studies (ORIAS) is dedicated to providing scholarly resources and supporting professional development for kindergarten through grade twelve teachers addressing international studies.
