NCCSS 365
Welcome to the 2026-2027 School Year!
Greetings Educators,
As the doors open to a brand-new school year, I want to extend a warm welcome back to each and every one of you. Whether you are stepping into your classroom for your first year or your thirtieth, the energy and anticipation of these first few weeks are unmatched.
Our work as educators extends far beyond textbooks and standards. Every day, we equip students to think critically, ask meaningful questions, engage as informed citizens, and navigate a complex world. That work has never been more vital, and your dedication to shaping North Carolina’s next generation of thinkers and leaders is truly inspiring.
The North Carolina Council for the Social Studies (NCCSS) is here to support you every step of the way. Under our ongoing theme, NCCSS365, we are excited to offer continuous support and resources throughout the year, including:
Exclusive Classroom Resources: A special classroom map reflecting North Carolina’s rich history during the American Revolution.
Professional Development: Webinars and virtual sessions designed to expand your teaching toolkit.
Annual Conference: Mark your calendars! We will be returning to Winston-Salem on March 4–5, 2027.
Be sure to explore the rest of this newsletter for key updates on session proposals, awards, board elections, and upcoming opportunities.
As you navigate these opening weeks, remember to take a breath and celebrate the profound impact you make. You are creating spaces where curiosity takes root and active citizenship begins.
On behalf of the entire NCCSS Board of Directors, thank you for your passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to North Carolina's students. Wishing you a fantastic start to the school year and a fulfilling year ahead!
Warm regards,
Tyler Daughtry
President, North Carolina Council for the Social Studies
Our theme is "ONE STATE + MANY VOICES: Growing Social Studies from Manteo to Murphy". This is your chance to share your innovative lesson plans, best practices, and diverse perspectives with colleagues from across the state.
Whether you’re teaching in a cozy mountain valley, a thriving urban center or a quiet town along the coast, we want to hear your voice! Help us grow Social Studies across North Carolina at the 2027
Save the Date: March 4-5, 2027
Location: Benton Convention Center, Winston-Salem, N.C.
Submit your presentation proposal here: https://nccss2027.sched.com/
More information can be found at:
Are you passionate about advocating for history, civics, geography, and economics in our schools? The North Carolina Council for the Social Studies (NCCSS) is looking for dedicated educators and leaders to serve on our Executive Board!
Running for an NCCSS leadership role gives you the opportunity to:
Advocate for social studies educators and students statewide.
Guide the vision and planning of our annual state conference.
Connect with a passionate network of educators dedicated to civic empowerment.
Whether you're interested in running for Vice President, Treasurer, or a Board Member position, your voice can make a lasting impact.
Nominate an Outstanding Educator or Apply for an NCCSS Award!
The North Carolina Council for the Social Studies (NCCSS) is proud to recognize exceptional educators, student teachers, and high school seniors across our state through our annual awards and scholarships—including the Three Teacher of the Year Awards (Elementary, Middle, High) Student Teacher of the Year, Rho Kappa Scholarship, and the Civil Rights/Civil Liberties Excellence in Teaching Award.
NEW THIS YEAR: Apply for a First-Time Scholarship to attend the NCCSS Annual Conference! Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate excellence in social studies education or join us at the conference.
The National Geography Bee is back for its second year. After a successful inaugural championship, with approximately 6,000 competitors from around the country, the tournament is back for the 2026-2027 year—and we want you to participate!
Here at National Geography Bee, we’re committed to celebrating and inspiring curiosity in students. Our competitions are designed to be fun and interdisciplinary, demonstrating to students how geography connects with their own lives. We have competitions for middle schools and high schools, and we’re committed to spreading our work to schools around the country.
Sign your school up today at nationalgeobee.org/register to get the early-bird registration discount! If you have any questions, be sure to check out the tournament guide at nationalgeobee.org/guidelines
