he primary purpose of the Stamford Public Schools Social Studies program is to prepare students to take an active role in the affairs of their local, state, and national community. To this end, it is imperative that all students have a thorough knowledge of the historic foundations of society as well as opportunities that encourage active citizenship.
The Stamford Public Schools Social Studies program provides the instructional means for children to learn about themselves and the interdependence of their families, culture, nation, and the world. Knowledge of the history of the Untied States and of our multicultural heritage is key to understanding each person’s relationship to one another. The values of freedom, liberty, and equality as expressed in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are unique legacies of American history. While our multicultural heritage has significantly influenced American political, social, and economic development, the contributions of individuals from numerous ethnic, racial, and gender groups have created the face of our diverse nation.
In an increasingly divers and complex world, students are facing many new and demanding challenges that require a higher level of critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills than ever before. Specifically, the areas of decision making, the process of research, analyzing and evaluating graphic and textual information, cooperative group interaction, and presentation skills are essential for students to meet these challenges and to be successful in the interdependent global society of the 21st century.
Our survival as a democratic society is dependent on the commitment of our youth to the principles and values that only a strong social studies education can nourish and foster.. Through the Social Studies program, students will learn the rules and responsibilities that work in tandem in a just society. They will recognize the importance of economic and geographic relationship. They will understand the importance of history and the richness of human diversity. Finally, through developing their confidence in the democratic process they will become responsible citizens.