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2025 American Civic Education Teacher Awards

On September 8, 2025, it was announced that three remarkable educators—Shae Parks from Delaware, Phillip Wrigley from Kansas, and Robert Schulte from New Jersey—have been selected as the recipients of the prestigious 2025 American Civic Education Teacher Awards (ACETA). These awards aim to honor teachers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and creativity in teaching civics and fostering informed citizenship among their students.

The accolades will be highlighted in a webinar occurring on Constitution Day, September 17, and will also be showcased during a special session at the National Council for the Social Studies Annual Conference in Washington D.C. on December 5.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Dr. Donna Phillips, President and CEO of the Center for Civic Education, commended these award-winning educators for their steadfast commitment to instilling lasting civic values in students. She stated, “These dedicated civic educators exemplify the highest ideals of our profession. By helping each new generation understand the principles of our democracy, they are building stronger students—and a stronger nation.”

Meet the Awardees:

Shae Parks, a high school teacher from a rural area in Delaware, builds lifelong connections between her students and their communities. She believes that nurturing civic engagement is crucial for the vibrancy of our democracy. “If we wish for our democracy to flourish, students need to enter the world with the ability and willingness to engage in civic discourse,” Parks shared in her self-portrait essay. With a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Kansas State University, Parks has been inspiring students for six years.

Phillip Wrigley, teaching in an urban Kansas environment, focuses on empowering his students to view themselves as changemakers. He incorporates a variety of teaching methods, such as simulations and Socratic seminars, to make the learning experience engaging and dynamic. Wrigley has a master’s degree in Education from Rockhurst University and has been a passionate teacher for 12 years.

Finally, Robert Schulte, a middle school educator in New Jersey, emphasizes media literacy and civil discourse in his classroom. He encourages students to analyze political issues from multiple perspectives, empowering them to make informed decisions. Schulte earned a master's degree in American History from Pace University and the Gilder Lehrman Institute and has dedicated 20 years to teaching the next generation.

The ACETA Initiative

Established in 2006, the ACETA program honors teachers who embody the principles of civic engagement and education. The Center for Civic Education collaborates with the Center on Representative Government at Indiana University and the National Education Association to sponsor this initiative. To be eligible for these awards, teachers must be full-time educators of grades K-12, submitting a self-portrait essay, a resume, and references as part of the application process.

Through the ACETA program, these three educators represent the diversity of American schools, showcasing the vital role of civic education in cultivating informed citizens necessary for a thriving democracy. Their contributions are vital in shaping future generations capable of understanding and participating in their government.

Conclusion

The inspiring work of Parks, Wrigley, and Schulte exemplifies the power of education in promoting civic responsibility. As they engage students in meaningful discussions around government and public policy, they not only enrich their classrooms but also contribute to the larger societal fabric, fostering informed and active citizens prepared to engage in democracy.

About The Organizations

The Center for Civic Education promotes informed participation in civic life. The Center on Representative Government advocates for a well-informed electorate, while the National Education Association represents millions of educators, all dedicated to creating a more engaged citizenry.