First Amendment: Speech, Press, and Free Expression

Join us for an engaging professional development weekend focused on deepening educators’ understanding of the First Amendment freedom of speech rights. In today’s classrooms, conversations around civic engagement, respectful dialogue, and controversial issues can be both challenging and essential. This workshop equips teachers with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate these critical conversations while fostering open, inclusive learning environments. 

By exploring the origins of the First Amendment’s guarantee of freedom of speech and expression and then examining subsequent jurisprudence, will provide teachers with the content knowledge and expertise to guide student’s understanding of their speech-related rights and responsibilities. In cases such as Schenck v US (1919), Gitlow v New York (1925), Brandenburg v Ohio (1959), Tinker v De Moines (1969), Texas v. Johnson (1989), Morse v. Frederick (2007), and Snyder v Phelps (2011), one can trace the establishment of important principles that define the contours and limits of freedom of speech. 

Participants will explore the historical foundations and contemporary applications of free speech in American society. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and collaborative discussions, teachers will examine real-world scenarios that illuminate the balance between protecting free expression and maintaining constructive, respectful discourse. 

Educators will gain practical strategies for addressing sensitive topics, encouraging student voice, and modeling how to engage with diverse perspectives. In addition, participants will receive curated classroom resources from FIRE, including lesson plans, guides, and multimedia materials designed to spark meaningful dialogue and civic understanding. 

The field study day will be spent in Philadelphia with possible visits (as time allows) to the National Liberty Museum, Independence Hall, and  the American Philosophical Society – all of whom are commemorating America 250 in special exhibits.

By the end of the weekend, teachers will leave with not only a deeper appreciation of First Amendment principles but also concrete approaches to cultivating classrooms where students feel empowered to express themselves, listen thoughtfully, and engage responsibly. This professional development experience is ideal for educators across disciplines who want to strengthen civic literacy and prepare students for active participation in a democratic society. 

Please note: For the field study day, participants should be prepared to walk significant distances, including up to one mile at a time, as part of the program. Some historic sites and other locations included in the itinerary may not be fully ADA compliant due to the age of the buildings and may lack elevators or other accessibility features.