Register for "America at 250! – The Legacy of the Declaration of Independence"
May 2nd, 2026 8:30 AM ET - 2:15 PM ET | Hosted by: West Virginia Civic Education Foundation | BridgeValley Community and Technical College | South Charleston, WV | Discussion Leader: Jason Jividen
There have been thousands of books and articles written about the Declaration of Independence, and its ringing words make an appearance in every American History textbook. Given all of this commentary and interpretation, is it still possible to understand the Declaration as its authors understood it? In this seminar, we will discuss the primary sources that best illuminate the Declaration’s meaning and imbue its words with living significance?
This program will be conducted as a Socratic discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with the Discussion Leader facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. Teachers will receive a Letter of Attendance at the conclusion of the seminar.

"It gave me a better understanding of the Founders’ views. They saw that restricting religious liberty is not only wrong; it leads to animosity within society. This year, I will begin both my government class and my class on “Law and Modern Society” with George Washington’s Letter to the Hebrew Congregation at Newport." — Sean B.