Passaic Today

Montclair State University has received a $1.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support civic education initiatives. The funding comes from the American History and Civics Seminars Program, which aims to strengthen civics education across the country.

The grant will fund NJ250: Civics and History for the Next Generation, a three-year project at Montclair State University. The project includes two main components: a Teacher Fellowship Program and the creation of civics-related videos.

Each year, 30 middle and high school teachers will participate in the fellowship program, working with subject matter experts to develop curricula focused on American history, civics, and economic liberty. Teachers selected for the program will receive a $6,000 stipend, and their lesson plans will be made publicly available. Applications for this fellowship are now open.

Additionally, teacher cohorts will collaborate with Montclair’s College of Communication and Media to produce “Schoolhouse Rock-style” short and long-form videos designed to engage students in civics topics beyond traditional classroom settings.

Montclair State University is the only institution in New Jersey to receive an award from the $153 million National Activities grant under this federal program.

“At Montclair State University, we believe that preparing all learners to be informed, engaged citizens is one of the most essential roles a public-serving institution can fulfill in our society,” said President Jonathan Koppell. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, this work is more urgent than ever. We are honored to lead efforts that will equip educators and students alike to reflect on the principles and values of American democracy so they can be informed and active citizens engaged in the responsibilities of self-government.”

The American History and Civics Seminars Program supports seminar-based instruction grounded in foundational texts and constitutional principles. It also funds educational resources for students and communities, events promoting civil discourse on public issues related to core American values, and locally developed curricular materials that align with state academic standards.

This initiative coincides with preparations for the United States Semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—which will take place in 2026.