Within the United States, education has long been valued as a means of fostering the growth and development of each person in order to realize the democratic ideals of freedom, equality, non-discrimination and respect for the rights of all. In an increasingly globalized world and within the United States itself, this growth and development must emphasize not only the rights and obligations arising from American citizenship but also the rights and responsibilities that arise domestically and globally from our common humanity.

 

Social Studies education is best suited for this task, as it equips students with the knowledge, critical thinking, values, attitudes, skills, and dispositions to be engaged, reflective citizens and responsible, aware members of the world community.