We the Teachers:
A National Fellowship for K–12 Educators

Timed to the nation’s 250th anniversary, the initiative aims to strengthen K-12 history and civics education. It will equip teachers with deep content knowledge, evidence-based pedagogy and classroom-ready tools that connect America’s founding principles to civic life. The result will be stronger learning outcomes for students across the country.

Meet the Cohort Learn More

The three-part program includes:

The Congress of Educators

A four-day, immersive experience for 100 educators from across the country Congress of Educators at William & Mary, featuring substantive, insightful, and inspiring content and pedagogy sessions paired with visits to and VIP experiences with leading museums in the region.

lilyPD Microcourses

Build impactful teaching skills through 5-hour online microcourses, focusing on topics including historical inquiry, civil discourse, non-fiction reading strategies, artifact analysis, exhibits in the classroom and more; all courses are accredited by the W&M School of Education.

Local Learning Communities

Lead workshops and/or peer learning communities in their home states—bringing the spirit of 1776 into today’s classrooms.

Led by William & Mary and the National Council for History Education, We the Teachers prepares educators to lead the next chapter in American history/civic education.

Build your skills with 5-hour online microcourses, focusing on topics including historical inquiry, civil discourse, non-fiction reading strategies, and more; all accredited by the W&M School of Education.

A four-day, immersive Congress of Educators in Williamsburg, featuring substantive and inspiring content and pedagogy sessions paired with place-based learning.

Lead a workshop and/or peer learning community in your state.

Apply by January 31, 2026 11:59 PM (EST)

K-12 educators, education specialists, administrators, and curriculum supervisors are encouraged to apply. Special preferences will be given to current classroom teachers. Learn more or apply now.

Year One fellows will convene in Williamsburg, Virginia at William & Mary (room and board provided) on July 26-30 for the inaugural Congress of Educators. Fellows who complete all three components of the “We the Teachers” program will receive a $2500 stipend. Applications open December 1, 2025. 

The grant also benefits W&M students by providing nearly $100,000 for paid applied-learning opportunities exclusively for them. The opportunities will include roles such as learning design, digital content development and production, communications and event management.

The project advances the university’s Vision 2026 Democracy and Careers goals. It also reinforces the university’s national reputation for developing civic leadership.