Civic Education

What is the purpose of school?

The college of Education is dedicated to the civic mission of public schools.  It was James Madison, architect of the U.S. Constitution who said, "A people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.” At the UW College of Education, we aim to provide the time, training, and tools pre-service and practicing Wyoming teachers need to promote enlightened citizenry in our students. We promote experiential, inquiry-based programs such as We the People and Project Citizen, along with other partner programs because educators should be posing tough questions and letting students seek the answers.  These processes lead to more civically literate young Wyomingites who really do “mean to be their own governors” with increased knowledge, agency, social skills, connections, and an orientation towards pursuing the common good.  13 year-old citizen of Laramie, Lina Robison, who has recently taken part in our programs, said it best, “Real American citizens need real American experiences that lead to real understanding of our great nation!”  We agree!

 

 

See our Programs