What are the Summer Institutes?

The ICS Summer Institutes are professional development programs held virtually on Zoom during the summer months. Our Summer Institutes provide an in-depth learning experience on our various curricular offerings. Participants will deepen their content knowledge, gain new teaching strategies, and collaborate with fellow educators.

Who can participate?

Our Summer Institutes are designed for middle and high school social studies and ELA teachers. However, the programs are open to any teacher at an accredited public/charter/private/parochial school who will be teaching during the next school year. Teachers of subjects other than social studies/ELA may apply but should explain in their application how they plan to incorporate the lesson topics into their curriculum.

Please note that admission to this program is not guaranteed.

What is the cost?

ICS provides these in-depth learning opportunities to educators for free. In addition, participants who complete a Summer Institute will receive a stipend. When registering, you will be required to submit a $50 deposit to secure your place. Upon completion of the Summer Institute, you will receive your deposit along with your stipend.

  • Stipend for Arab-Israeli Conflict: $225
  • Stipend for Jewish History: $150

What topics are covered during a Summer Institute?

This summer, we are offering two different learning tracks:

Transform your approach to teaching one of history’s most complex conflicts. This 3-day virtual program guides educators through the evolution of nationalist movements from the late 19th century through the turning points of the mid-2000s. By analyzing the rise of Zionism and Arab Nationalism through the lens of critical inquiry, participants will explore the successes and failures of the peace process and tackle today’s unresolved issues.

What you’ll gain:

  • Expert Analysis: Navigate a robust library of primary and secondary sources to trace historical shifts from the late 1800s to the early 2000s.
  • Primary Source Mastery: Learn new strategies to engage students with authentic historical documents.
  • Ready-to-Use Resources: Walk away with ready-to-use and standards-supporting high-quality instructional tools.
  • Collaborative Network: Connect and brainstorm with fellow educators in a dynamic virtual environment.

Empower students to understand the realities of the Jewish experience. This 2-day program bridges the gap between ancient traditions and modern American life.

What you’ll gain:

  • A Proven Framework: Based in the C3 framework, you’ll master the “3Bs” of Judaism (Belief, Behavior, and Belonging).
  • Historical Clarity: Deepen your understanding of the historical origins and evolution of antisemitism to help students recognize its modern manifestations.
  • Compelling Narratives: Trace the Jewish experience through America’s immigration waves and their impact on the American landscape
  • Contemporary Insights: A modern perspective on the vibrant diversity of Jewish American identity in the 21st century.
  • Collaborative Network: Connect and brainstorm with fellow educators in a dynamic virtual environment.
  • An Educator Toolkit:Walk away with ready-to-use and standards-supporting high-quality instructional tools.

Can I participate in both Summer Institute tracks?

Absolutely! Please note that if you are accepted to both tracks, you will have to submit a $50 deposit for each event. If you are interested in both tracks, you can apply for both on ONE application.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes! Those who complete a Summer Institute will receive a certificate indicating hours of participation:

  • Teaching the History of the Arab-Israeli Conflict Using Primary Sources = 9 hours of participation
  • Jewish History = 6 hours of participation
Professional Development > Summer Institutes

How do I apply?

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Questions about Summer Institutes? Contact us!

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Questions about Summer Institutes? Contact us!