Explore ways to bring history to life in their classroom
This event emphasizes best-practice, student-centered pedagogy and invites participants to deepen their understanding of George Washington’s pivotal role in the founding of our nation. Educators will gain practical strategies and resources to help students make meaningful connections to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.
Participants will explore ways to empower students with historical insight while equipping them with the tools needed for active participation in a democratic society. By fostering reflection on civic identity and responsibility, this workshop supports the development of thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens prepared to contribute to our shared civic communities.
Schedule
| 8:15 a.m. | Check-in/Light Breakfast |
| 8:50 a.m. | Welcome |
| 9 a.m. | New Perspectives on Teaching George Washington during the 250th Dr. Ed Lengel |
| 10 a.m. | Patriots in Exile: Charleston Rebels in St. Augustine During the American Revolution Dr. Chipp Bragg |
| 11 a.m. | Citizenship and the Founders: Teaching about their Accomplishments and Shortcomings Professor Scott Akemon, Dr. Jayme Feagin, & Dr. Bronson Long |
| 12 p.m. | Lunch |
| 12:45 p.m. | The Duality of Washington Dr. Tammara Purdin |
| 1:45 p.m. | Constitution 101: More Than a Piece of Parchment Dr. Bernadette Bennett |
| 2:40 p.m. | Using Museums and Historical Spaces: Resources for Teachers and Students, Research Selina Tully |
| 3:30 p.m. | Closing |
*Lunch is provided
Registration Requirements
Who can register?
- Teachers MUST teach in a formal K-12 classroom or school setting.
- The workshop is limited to 50 teachers.
- A waitlist will be available if registration meets full capacity.
Questions? Please contact [email protected]
Meet the Speakers
Dr. Ed Lengel
Edward G. Lengel is an award-winning historian and educator. He received his Ph.D.
from the University of Virginia, where he directed the Washington Papers Project for
many years, and subsequently worked in senior positions in the public history field. Also
a professional author, speaker and battlefield tour guide, Lengel has written over fifteen
books on American history. These include the official history of Colonial Williamsburg;
General George Washington: A Military Life; and Never in Finer Company: The Men of
the Great War’s Lost Battalion. Other works to be published soon include: a biography of
Light Horse Harry Lee, a study of the family of Texas founder Stephen F. Austin, and an
Audible Original on George Washington at the Battles of Trenton and Princeton. Lengel
is a co-recipient of the National Humanities Medal and has won numerous writing
awards. He makes frequent television and radio appearances, most recently including on
Ken Burns’s documentary series about the American Revolution.
Bernadette Bennett
Dr. Bernadette D. Bennett is an educator with extensive experience in curriculum development, particularly in social science and literacy curricula. She specializes in creating curricula for nonprofit organizations and developing instructional programs tailored to meet specific goals. She effectively provides staff development at all levels, offering objective-based solutions to achieve student-focused objectives. Dr. Bennett holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Doctorate in Teaching and Learning, with an emphasis on disciplinary literacy and staff development. She has a proven track record of partnering with educational institutions, for-profit and nonprofit organizations, and community agencies to support initiatives that bridge educational and community partnerships. Currently, she is employed at Khan Academy.
Dr. Chip Bragg
Dr. Chip Bragg graduated from Georgia Southern College and the Medical College of Georgia. He served in the U.S. Air Force Medical Corps before moving to Thomasville, Georgia, where he practiced anesthesiology for 33 years. He is the assistant secretary general of the Society of the Cincinnati, the nation’s oldest patriotic organization, founded in 1783 by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution. In this role, he also serves as editor-in-chief of the Society’s journal, Cincinnati Fourteen. Chip has studied, written about, and lectured on South Carolina during the Revolution for nearly two decades. His lifelong passion for American history has led to the publication of six books and numerous articles.
Dr. Bronson Long
Dr. Bronson Long is a Professor of History at Georgia Highlands College. Since 2007, he has taught American History, World History, and Economic History on the Floyd campus of Georgia Highlands College as well as online. Bronson has given many presentations on European History and has numerous publications, including his 2015 book No Easy Occupation: French Control of the German Saar, 1944-1957. He holds a Ph.D. in History from Indiana University, an M.A. in History from the University of Georgia, and B.A.s in History and French from the University of North Georgia.
Meet the Educators
Tammara Purdin
Dr. Tammara (Tammi) Purdin is a dedicated educator, Florida native, and proud mother and Mamaw. With over 23 years of teaching experience, Tammi has taught in a variety of educational settings, including Gifted, Exceptional Student Education, and Title I programs. She currently serves as an educator at Atwater Elementary School and is the Executive Director of the Florida Council for History Education, a nonprofit organization committed to promoting the importance of history education across the state. Tammi also co-founded the Florida Council for History Education which reflects her ongoing commitment to advancing historical literacy both in schools and throughout the broader community. She holds a Doctorate in Teaching and Learning with a concentration in American History. Her academic research focuses on elementary and secondary history instruction, literacy proficiency, and the use of historical thinking strategies in the classroom. Outside of her professional work, Tammi enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, and relaxing at the beach.
Upcoming GWTI 250 - South Events
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