The Experiencing America Teacher Institute concluded June 20th after four days of immersive Revolutionary War education for 41 educators from across the United States. The program, a partnership between the American Village Citizenship Trust and Troy University, provided professional development focused on bringing 18th-century American history to life in modern classrooms.
The institute began last Tuesday with orientation sessions exploring taxation tensions that sparked colonial unrest. Historian Mike Bunn presented “Alabama During America’s Revolutionary Era” followed by a historical interpretation of the Olive Branch Petition featuring John Dickinson.
Wednesday’s sessions examined how ordinary colonists influenced early rebellion. Tony Williams delivered “Expression of the American Mind: Resistance to Taxes & Tyranny” while classroom application sessions demonstrated methods for teaching the Boston Tea Party to students.
Thursday’s programming spotlighted the Battle of Bunker Hill with expert insights from Dr. Jim Day and interactive educational workshops. The day wrapped up with a Freedom Feast featuring games, music and dancing.
The final sessions addressed the lasting impact of revolutionary ideals, culminating with the question: “Do we, as a people, still embody the hopes, desires and attitudes of the Declaration of Independence?”
The program’s success was evident in participant engagement throughout the week. Dr. Jeff L. Scott, Executive Director of Academic Operations for Troy University’s College of Education, described the experience as “dynamic learning” and praised educators’ preparation. “These educators have asked amazing questions, showing they’ve taken their preparation seriously,” Scott said.
Dr. Fred Figliano, dean of the College of Education at Troy University, emphasized the program’s impact on classroom instruction. “This institute represents exactly what we envision for transformative professional development – educators not just learning content but experiencing history in ways that will fundamentally change how they teach these pivotal moments in American history,” Figliano said.
Participating educators confirmed this transformative approach. Nikki Boganwright, an elementary teacher from Arlington, Texas, called the experience “first class” and appreciated learning to “break down these big ideas for 10-year-olds.”
Veronica Kivela, a high school teacher from West Palm Beach, Florida, discovered unexpected regional connections, noting she “didn’t realize how much Alabama connected to the revolution with parts of Florida and Mississippi.”
The inaugural event demonstrated the power of immersive historical education, providing educators with both scholarly content and practical classroom applications that will enhance Revolutionary War instruction nationwide.
