YHOP – About the Program

1. Teach students the concepts and skills that will prepare them for responsible citizenship and help them to succeed at school, at work, and as contributing members of their communities. 

1. Guide students in identifying, researching, and acting on social issues in their school or community. 

1. Embed opportunities for students to apply their First Amendment rights, character strengths, and unique abilities to take constructive action and become positive change agents. 

1. Foster within students the confidence that, through self-determination and active citizenship, they can be changemakers in their schools, communities, and nation. 

We are looking for teachers who value character and civic education, believe in the importance of student voice, and feel comfortable implementing project-based learning strategies in the classroom. Teachers should have a desire for students to create high-quality work and make a difference in their world and community. Teachers should be able to have open communication with NLM Educators.

Participating Classroom Teachers will be responsible for facilitating a series of Lessons, divided into 5 Phases, over the course of the school year from October through May. Each Lesson offers approximately 45-60 minutes of content and activities, all of which are flexible and complimentary to existing curriculum and classroom instruction. Classroom Teachers typically integrate YHOP curriculum into their regular instruction once a week or once every two weeks, depending on preference and class schedule. Classroom Teachers are expected to attend at least 4 YHOP professional development sessions over the course of the program, each lasting approximately 2 hours in the afternoon or early evening. 

Each participating school is paired with a NLM Educator who guides the Classroom Teachers and students through the program and provides support when needed. Throughout the program, each school’s NLM Educator leads 5 museum-based Lessons that enhance the content of the program and connect it to the museum’s exhibitions. Participating Classroom Teachers are also offered a series of free professional development workshops that are aligned with the content and skill development of the program, as well as supportive of their overall professional requirements and goals. These sessions are led by experts who provide valuable resources and discussion on topics such as trauma-informed teaching, social emotional learning, media literacy, student voice and choice, and community engagement. All sessions are eligible for Act48 credit. 

Yes. Participation in YHOP includes a guided visit to the National Liberty Museum, virtually or in-person, based on school location or preference.