The Teagle Foundation: Education for American Civic Life

The Education for American Civic Life initiative aims to prepare students for active participation in civic life at both local and national levels. Offering grants between $100,000-$300,000 over 24-36 months, this initiative focuses on elevating civic objectives within liberal arts education by fostering bold initiatives that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and sensibility required for self-governance. The program emphasizes the importance of comprehensive civic knowledge, grounded in teaching, reading, debate, and discussion as part of the curriculum. It seeks projects that address gaps in civic knowledge and prepare undergraduates for democratic participation, focusing on the formation of the American republic, its Constitution, the evolution of political structures, and the principles of democracy. Proposals must demonstrate investment in faculty leadership, focus on undergraduate education, ensure sustainability beyond the grant period, include clear goals and assessment methods, and plan for the dissemination of developed knowledge and practices. Additionally, the initiative specifically supports projects that anchor civic questions in local history and strengthen preparation for public service, encouraging curricular interventions and pathways for students into public service roles.