Podcast: Chris Beem on the seven democratic virtues

Every year, as teachers return to school, they assume the responsibility of educating America’s future leaders, voters, jurors, and neighbors. This year, the responsibility feels heightened as we approach the nation’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. Teachers are in a position to invite students into the celebration and ensure they receive a comprehensive civic education in American history, founding principles, and the vision for the country’s future.

Civics and American history must not be reduced to the dispassionate regurgitation of names, dates, and events. Instead, these subjects should inspire curiosity and appreciation in our students, encouraging them to ask questions about our country’s founding principles and to learn from the moments of both triumph and failure in our past.