In recognition of Constitution Day on September 17, the Maine Department of Education is pleased to announce Democracy Lab, a new facilitator’s guide designed to support educators and students in exploring the nation’s founding ideals. This interactive resource examines principles expressed in the Declaration of Independence, including natural, unalienable rights, equity, the consent of the governed, and the belief that governmental authority rests with the people. While Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution, the Democracy Lab helps participants explore the ideas that influenced the nation’s system of government.
Educators are invited to join the Maine Department of Education for a virtual launch of the Democracy Lab at 3 p.m. on September 17. During the event, educators will explore the guide and learn how its activities can support active, engaging civics learning throughout the school year.
The Democracy Lab features activities that have been tested with students in Maine schools. The guide includes interactive simulations, debates, creative visual activities, and historical inquiry using primary sources. These experiences help students move beyond learning about democracy and begin examining democratic ideas through inquiry, action, and exploration.
The virtual launch offers educators an opportunity to mark Constitution Day while discovering resources to support meaningful civic learning throughout the year.
Join the Democracy Lab virtual launch at 3:00 p.m. on Sept. 17
Extend Constitution Day Learning Throughout the Year
Constitution Day can be more than a single lesson or activity. It can be a starting point for conversations about how government works, how rights are protected, how laws are interpreted, and how young people can participate in civic life.
The Maine Department of Education’s Civics page provides additional information and resources for educators seeking to strengthen civics instruction throughout the school year.
Visit the Maine Department of Education Civics page
For more information, please contact Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist Geoff Wingard at Geoffrey.Wingard@maine.gov.
Maine DOE Newsroom 