Virtual Teacher Institute Will Bring Educators Together As They "Log In and Learn"

(Washington, D.C.) — Driven to equip teachers with top-notch tools and real-world knowledge — while ensuring accessibility and safety — the American Battlefield Trust is set to embark on its second Virtual Teacher Institute in July. This immersive opportunity is open to K-12 teachers & administrators, museum professionals, librarians and college-level educators from around the world. Registration for this exciting opportunity is now open.  

“Our teachers have been doubling down to create conducive learning environments amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing their ongoing efforts, the Trust wants nothing more than to hold meaningful events for them,” said Trust President David Duncan. “That’s why we’ve worked to offer an abundance of creative-but-practical online sessions at this year’s Virtual Teacher Institute, with hopes that they will bring refreshing ideas into classrooms and learning institutions around the globe.” 

Since 2002, the National Teacher Institute had been an in-person event, but COVID restrictions forced the 2020 event to go virtual. That necessary switch allowed the organization to reach a record-breaking 784 educators — almost as many as the previous four years combined. This amazing opportunity for connection motivated the Trust to seek out methods to deliver more content to an ever-larger audience, as it looked to pursue a dual-track program with both in-person and online options. However, as public health concerns continue to hold, the Trust had to forego the in-person event and refocus its energy into bringing the virtual program to new heights.   

Our second annual Virtual Teacher Institute will conveniently bring the Trust’s many experts and speakers to screens near and far, July 12–16, 2021. Modeled on elements from past on-site Teacher Institutes, this online event will feature workshops, lectures, and moderated discussions that run the gamut and leave attendees considering America’s formative struggles from a wide range of perspectives, both popular and under-told. Last year, attendees raved, noting the variety of topics and the animated and engaging nature of presenters. And this year we have more than doubled the number of sessions offered.   

The event instills educators with a better understanding of their subject matter and deeper passion for history education. By attending, educators can apply for a Continuing Education Unit (CEU) certificate — provided by the American Battlefield Trust — at the conclusion of the event. Attendees will be required to register for each online session they wish to attend and must attend a minimum of eight live sessions to qualify for a CEU certificate. 

To learn more and keep up to date with the event, visit www.battlefields.org/events/virtual-teacher-institute-2021.  

The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today.  The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 53,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Civil War. Learn more at www.battlefields.org. 

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