Inspiring the Next Generation: Arlington ISD Launches Unique Civics Lessons with the National Medal of Honor Museum

In a vibrant Texas history classroom adorned with red, white, and blue decorations, a transformative educational initiative is taking shape. On November 6, three dedicated seventh-grade teachers from Arlington ISD gathered for an exciting training session aimed at rolling out a groundbreaking civic education program alongside the upcoming National Medal of Honor Museum.

Unpacking New Educational Materials

The day following Election Day, these educators eagerly dove into boxes filled with fresh teaching materials, including:

• Motivational stickers
• Instructional packets
• Baseball card-style printouts featuring National Medal of Honor recipients

These teachers from Gunn Junior High School Fine Arts and Dual Language Academy are set to be the first to implement a curriculum developed in collaboration with the soon-to-open museum, which is dedicated to preserving the inspiring stories of the nation’s 3,519 Medal of Honor recipients—the highest military honor awarded for valor in combat.

A Curriculum Built for Impact

Scheduled to open on March 25, 2025, just seven miles from the school, the museum has spent over a year working closely with Arlington ISD to create a civics curriculum centered around the bravery of Medal of Honor recipients. This initiative aims not only to educate but also to inspire students to embody the values of commitment, integrity, courage, and sacrifice in their own lives.

Jacqueline Kennedy, the Associate Vice President of Education and Experiences at the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, expressed the program's intent: “We want students to reflect on their own values and how they can contribute positively to their schools and communities.”

A Hands-On Learning Experience

In total, around 320 seventh graders will participate in nine instructional sessions spread over six weeks during November and December. They will also be the first group to visit the National Medal of Honor Museum once it opens.

Teacher Insights

Texas history teacher Bethany Turner, who hosted the training session, shared her excitement about piloting this project. “It’s been thrilling to help shape a program that aligns with our existing lesson plans while also enriching our students’ understanding of civic responsibility,” she remarked.

Matt Varnell, the principal of Gunn Junior High, praised the teachers for their commitment to both their students and their professional development. He believes that the diverse student body at Gunn provides a perfect environment to test this curriculum, which is designed to resonate with students from various backgrounds.

Future Implications

As the program unfolds, there are plans to adapt it for high school students, focusing on themes of citizenship and patriotism. The ultimate goal is to create a nationwide curriculum that not only honors military heroes but also cultivates future leaders among America’s youth.

What do you think?

• Should civic education be a mandatory part of school curricula across the nation?
• How can stories of valor from the past shape the values of today's youth?
• Do you believe that honoring military heroes in schools can positively influence student behavior and attitudes?
• Could the focus on military valor overshadow other important aspects of civic education?
• What other educational programs could be developed to inspire students in different areas of civic engagement?