Denise Furlong

What are the skills necessary for all students to become informed, active, engaged, and enthusiastic citizens in this rapidly-changing, increasingly diverse, interconnected society? This book provides the framework to answer this question. Step by step, the book introduces a series of core competencies and skills that every student should acquire by the time they graduate. Then it provides useful, practical ways to implement these skills in classrooms. In this book, readers are given the tools to move beyond theory and into "action civics," empowering students to: • Connect “textbook” civics to present-day challenges. • Evaluate local issues and brainstorm collaborative solutions. • Develop critical analysis skills to navigate misinformation. • Engage in respectful, civil discourse on complex and even controversial topics. • Forge intergenerational connections by working directly with their communities. This timely and vital resource empowers educators to reclaim civics education and provide an open door for all students, regardless of their background or perspective. It's a roadmap for transforming our graduates into the active, engaged citizens our communities and our nation so desperately need. The book is a professional learning tool, a curriculum guide, and a call to action all in one, making it the ideal resource for in-service social studies teachers and school leaders.

What are the skills necessary for all students to become informed, active, engaged, and enthusiastic citizens in this rapidly-changing, increasingly diverse, interconnected society? This book provides the framework to answer this question. Step by step, the book introduces a series of core competencies and skills that every student should acquire by the time they graduate. Then it provides useful, practical ways to implement these skills in classrooms. In this book, readers are given the tools to move beyond theory and into "action civics," empowering students to: • Connect “textbook” civics to present-day challenges. • Evaluate local issues and brainstorm collaborative solutions. • Develop critical analysis skills to navigate misinformation. • Engage in respectful, civil discourse on complex and even controversial topics. • Forge intergenerational connections by working directly with their communities. This timely and vital resource empowers educators to reclaim civics education and provide an open door for all students, regardless of their background or perspective. It's a roadmap for transforming our graduates into the active, engaged citizens our communities and our nation so desperately need. The book is a professional learning tool, a curriculum guide, and a call to action all in one, making it the ideal resource for in-service social studies teachers and school leaders.

Practical advice, inclusive strategies, meaningful impact. The early years of teaching can be exhilarating and overwhelming in equal measure. Drawing on over 50 years of combined experience in public schooling, coaching, and higher education, authors Denise Furlong and Keri Orange-Jones equip novice educators with the tools, insights, and perspectives they need to thrive in today’s classrooms. Learners First applies an equity lens to a range of topics essential to every teacher’s first years in the classroom, including grading and assessment, inclusive practices for diverse learners, key considerations for multilingual learners, and more. Additional features include Chapter-opening reflection questions and key vocabulary to support understandingQuotes and vignettes from a diverse range of educators, including novice teachers, seasoned mentors, instructional coaches, and administratorsPractical advice for lesson planning, assessments, evaluations, and behavior management With its holistic approach to the whole child and the whole teacher, Learners First empowers educators to foster inclusive classrooms and develop as resilient, reflective professionals. This essential guide is more than a "survival guide" for new teachers—it’s a call to action and growth.