Social Studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence. Within the school program, Social Studies provides coordinated, systematic study drawing upon such disciplines as history, government, geography, economics, law, psychology, and sociology. The primary purpose of the Social Studies is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world. (adapted from NCSS, 1993)
We recognize the importance of educating students who are able to use knowledge about their community, nation, and world to think and act as productive citizens. Students who have the commitment, the knowledge, and the skills will be the most capable of shaping our future, sustaining and improving our democracy, and assuming “the office of citizen”, as Thomas Jefferson called it.