In 2004, the state legislature passed a law creating new social studies standards for grades K-12. The standards define a common foundation of knowledge and skills in U.S. History, World History, Geography, Economics, and Civics. The State of Minnesota suggests that primary grades focus on an introduction to History and Social Studies, while grades 4-12 concentrate on the areas of World History, Geography, Local and Minnesota History, U.S. History, Economics and Civics.

As part of the Project for Academic Excellence, social studies content coaches will be providing assistance to schools. Coaches will work with school staff to align the new Minnesota State Social Studies Standards with current curriculum. Many of the Saint Paul Junior High Schools have been involved with the recent initiative, Disciplinary Literacy. At various grade levels throughout the district, students may be encouraged to participate in social studies projects such as Model United Nations, Minnesota History Day, Kids Voting and Geography Fair.

We are also pleased to present Historians in the Schools (HITS). This compelling new program paid for through a Teaching American History Grant for teachers enhances the quality of American history instruction and content. Designed to improve student achievement, HITS also expands and strengthens partnerships with academic historians and museum professionals to create a continuum of teaching, learning and practice. Through HITS, Saint Paul Public School educators have the opportunity to collaborate with historians from the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Historical Society. Teachers will enrich their American history content knowledge and ability to deliver rigorous academic instruction by attending intensive summer institutes, school-year seminars and workshops, and ongoing teacher study groups. Secondary social studies teachers are welcome to participate in any or all components of the three-year program. To learn more about the HITS program, click here to visit the HITS web site.