[Audio Only] Social Studies: The Unsung Hero of Student Achievement

June 7, 2024

Podcast episode preview

Hear why social studies deserves a bigger role in student achievement.

In this episode, Newsela host Dan Cogan-Drew and social studies leaders explore how inquiry, relevance, background knowledge, and community connections can strengthen literacy, engagement, and civic readiness.

In This Episode

Conversation preview

Preview the ideas, examples, and practical questions listeners will hear in the full episode.

Why social studies matters

Hear how social studies can build background knowledge, strengthen literacy, and help students connect learning to the world around them.

How districts measure impact

Explore examples from Cherry Creek and Racine that connect social studies instruction to inquiry, engagement, and measurable outcomes.

What leaders can take forward

Listen for practical ways to protect instructional time, support teachers, and build community partnerships around social studies learning.

Featured Guests

Host
Dan Cogan-Drew
Co-founder and Chief Academic Officer, Newsela

Guest
Steven Kidd
PreK–12 Performance Improvement Partner for Social Studies, Cherry Creek School District

Guest
Mallory Umar
Assistant Director of Curriculum & Instruction, Racine Unified School District

Guest
Lawrence Paska, Ph.D., CAE
Executive Director, NCSS

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[Audio Only] Social Studies: The Unsung Hero of Student Achievement

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