LINKS (Learning Independence and Nationhood in Kansas Schools) is a professional learning initiative for Kansas 3–8 grade teachers.

  • 3-Year Grant (2025-2028)
  • US Department of Education Funding

  • Part of America’s 250th Anniversary Initiative

  • Supporting Kansas Elementary & Middle School Teachers

Teachers who participate in Year 1 will:

  • Build professional learning communities connecting them with scholars, museums, and historic sites
  • Receive $300 in funding to support projects in your classroom
  • Receive a one-year membership to the National Council for History Education
  • Apply civic skills and strategies aligned with the Kansas History, Government, and Social Studies Standards
  • Have the opportunity to receive scholarship
  • Participate in place-based learning experiences in Kansas and beyond, including a Summer Field Study in Boston, MA, and a Seminar on Civic Application/Summer Colloquium at the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas.
Learning Independence and Nationhood in Kansas Schools

The LINKS project is designed to enhance teachers’ instructional practice by integrating historical thinking into classrooms.

Over the next three years, NCHE will partner with scholars, historical organizations, and educational leaders to share innovative pedagogy and rich content that helps students engage meaningfully with the past. In addition, the program will foster collaboration among teachers from different schools, districts, and regions, creating connections that extend beyond the classroom.

$2,000

Receive a $2,000 stipend upon completing program requirements

90 hours

Engage in more than 90 hours of professional development through in-person and virtual sessions

The LINKS team brings decades of experience in teacher professional development and historical thinking pedagogy to support Kansas educators in creating dynamic history classrooms.

The LINKS initiative is led by the National Council for History Education in partnership with key organizations committed to enriching history education throughout Kansas. Our collaborative partners include the Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas, the Kansas State Department of Education, and the Kansas Council for History Education.

Learn More

Applications closed at 11:59 PM ET on November 14, 2025. Keep your eyes open next Fall for Year Two of LINKS.

The year-long program launches in December 2025 with a virtual orientation introducing participants to program expectations. Throughout the spring semester, educators will engage in a blend of learning formats: Saturday Seminars, Virtual Webinars, Conference Opportunities, and two intensive summer experiences.

Reach Dalton Savage, Project Director at dalton@ncheteach.org
Reach Yasmin Forbes, Lead Curriculum Specialist at yasmin@ncheteach.org

https://www.loc.gov/resource/highsm.44416/?r=-0.225,0.018,1.465,0.606,0