What CUFA Members & Members of Higher Education Have To Say
Dr. Joel Westheimer - University Research Chair in Democracy and Education, University of Ottawa
Dr. Yohuru Williams - Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Th
Dr. Yohuru Williams - Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Th
Joe Schmidt has been a tireless advocate for social studies education across more than a dozen educational organizations. I have always been impressed, in particular, with his excellent work on civil discourse and political conversation in classrooms. Without glossing over important political and ideological differences in perspectives, Joe has always endeavored to build bridges. We need more of that in our national organizations and this quality (along with his vast experience in social studies education) would make Joe Schmidt an excellent president of NCSS.
Dr. Yohuru Williams - Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Th
Dr. Yohuru Williams - Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Th
Dr. Yohuru Williams - Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Th
Joe Schmidt's candidacy for the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) President is marked by his extensive experience working across all areas of the social studies landscape with an unwavering commitment to support social studies educators.
Joe has a resolute dedication to civil discourse and embracing diverse perspectives, essential in today's divided society. His advocacy for equity and inclusivity is evident in his work. Furthermore, Joe's infectious passion for social studies helps as he actively promotes the field within educational institutions and the wider community. His leadership fosters collaboration, creates a supportive environment, and empowers others to advocate for what they believe in.
Joe’s work across many different content areas and positions, provides him with knowledge of educational policies and the evolving educational landscape, and positions him as an ideal candidate for NCSS President. His dedication to staying informed ensures that he can effectively guide the organization through today's educational challenges.
When it comes to promoting democracy and inclusivity in our society today, Joe Schmidt's exceptional qualifications, commitment to social studies education, dedication to equity and inclusivity, leadership skills, and policy expertise make him the ideal leader for NCSS.
Dr. Jeffery Nokes - History Department, Brigham Young University
Dr. Yohuru Williams - Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Th
Averill Kelley - Assistant Professor of African American Studies & Student Teacher Field Placements,
I met Joe Schmidt many years ago when he was the Social Studies specialist for the Maine Department of Education. I was impressed immediately by his passion for social studies education and for the “street cred” he possessed as an experienced and successful classroom teacher. Through the years I have had many opportunities to work together with Joe, who currently is the Director of Programs for the Bill of Rights Institute. In each of these interactions I have found him to be dedicated to equity, excited about social studies, knowledgeable about students and learning, and driven to improve his own teaching and the teaching of others. He is compelled by the desire to make sure that young people have great experiences in their social studies classes and are prepared for civic engagement. Joe is an outstanding leader because he practices what he preaches. He has made a positive impact in social studies teaching in Maine and across the nation. He wisely navigates the treacherous waters of the social studies wars, dealing respectfully with both friend and foe, but never backing down from doing what is right for diverse young people. I’m confident that Joe Schmidt has the leadership, wisdom, and courage to lead the National Council for the Social Studies now, when it’s role in promoting democracy has never been more critical.
Averill Kelley - Assistant Professor of African American Studies & Student Teacher Field Placements,
Averill Kelley - Assistant Professor of African American Studies & Student Teacher Field Placements,
Averill Kelley - Assistant Professor of African American Studies & Student Teacher Field Placements,
I've known Joe for the past five years and he continues to remain an active leader in many social studies organizations. As a former social studies classroom teacher, working with the Maine Department of Education, and the Bill of Rights Institute, he understands the current socio-political climate facing the field of social studies education and can be a voice for change. Joe truly embodies what it means to be an active and effective citizen and social studies leader.
Dr. Peter Levine - College of Civic Life at Tufts University
Averill Kelley - Assistant Professor of African American Studies & Student Teacher Field Placements,
Kenneth Carano - Professor, Education & Leadership, Western Oregon University
I have been deeply impressed with Joe Schmidt’s commitment to social studies and his wisdom about strengthening the field, both in Maine and now at the Bill of Rights Institute. He is already a leader, and he has huge potential to contribute as a leader of NCSS.
Kenneth Carano - Professor, Education & Leadership, Western Oregon University
Averill Kelley - Assistant Professor of African American Studies & Student Teacher Field Placements,
Kenneth Carano - Professor, Education & Leadership, Western Oregon University
Joe Schmidt has long been a national leader in the social studies field. His book, Civil Discourse: Classroom Conversations for Stronger Communities, provides a student-friendly framework to discuss contentious issues while becoming actively engaged in their communities. His years of working as a high school teacher, college professor in social studies methods courses, and at district, state, and national-level leadership has provided Joe a unique lens for bringing diverse groups together. He currently works tirelessly providing school districts and K-12 teachers, around the country, professional development in his current job. These unique experiences and skills that Joe brings will do our NCSS membership and their diverse student body well as a future president of our organization.
Lori Rech - Instructor, Southeast Community College
Amy Reece - Senior Program Manager, Project ECHO University of New Mexico & Professional Development
Amy Reece - Senior Program Manager, Project ECHO University of New Mexico & Professional Development
I highly endorse Joe Schmidt for President of NCSS! He is a leader, motivator, and caring individual, and published author who will serve as an amazing President! His knowledge of history and civic education is top notch and his research into the need to build empathy in classroom conversations is essential to all social studies classes! His book, Civil Discourse: Classroom Conversations for Stronger Communities an essential reading for social studies teachers. Vote for Joe!!
Amy Reece - Senior Program Manager, Project ECHO University of New Mexico & Professional Development
Amy Reece - Senior Program Manager, Project ECHO University of New Mexico & Professional Development
Amy Reece - Senior Program Manager, Project ECHO University of New Mexico & Professional Development
Joe Schmidt’s devotion to civics education is an inspiration to all who work with him. His ability to bring our team of professional development instructors together and get us on the same page, working to support social studies teachers is highly developed. His leadership is solid and allows his team members to flourish and use our specific talents to bring the highest quality professional development possible to the teachers we serve. He is the perfect choice for the next president of NCSS.
Melissa Starkey - Associate Professor of Education at Central Baptist College
Amy Reece - Senior Program Manager, Project ECHO University of New Mexico & Professional Development
Melissa Starkey - Associate Professor of Education at Central Baptist College
Joe Schmidt is an authentic individual who is passionate about his work. He is an incredible advocate for the Social Studies. During the pandemic, he helped provide PD for teachers in my state, and I am very thankful to have him as a colleague. If I ever had questions, Joe could be counted on to answer my call. I fully support Joe Schmidt as he runs for NCSS President.