Our curriculum is further supported by the ARC Reading Series, which incorporates American themes and historical literacy into language arts. In fourth grade, students focus on U.S. states; fifth-grade students explore the American Revolution; and sixth grade delves into the Civil War. Seventh-grade students engage with economic concepts, while eighth grade focuses on the Civil Rights Movement. In high school, the American Revolution is revisited in tenth grade, and eleventh-grade students study World War II, American history, and civics in greater depth.

Seventh-grade geography students examine political, urban, and economic geography. They also study the history of government, economy, and culture across subregions. Eighth-grade civics includes comprehensive coverage of citizenship, government and society, the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and amendments. Students learn how Congress operates, how bills become laws, and explore the powers and branches of government. Topics such as state and local government, foreign policy, courts, political processes, flag etiquette, legal systems, economics, and global issues are thoroughly examined. Students also study the Declaration of Independence and engage in discussions on contemporary political issues.

In American History, students study the founding documents of the nation, including the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Articles of Confederation. Major historical periods and events covered include the American Revolution, Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression and New Deal, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, and the War of 1812. Additionally, students explore the Louisiana Purchase, Western Expansion, and America’s involvement in conflicts like the Spanish-American War. The curriculum also covers social movements such as the Civil Rights Movement and Women’s Rights Movement. Students analyze the evolution of public education, immigration, segregation, U.S. trade policy, and landmark Supreme Court decisions. Multimedia resources such as America: The Story of Us enrich the learning experience.

Government education focuses on understanding the structure and function of the U.S. government. Students study the Constitution, Bill of Rights, civil liberties, and political processes including elections. They explore the legislative process, the roles of the presidency and Congress, and the operations of state and local governments. Economic literacy, foreign policy, and the role of the Supreme Court are emphasized. Seniors participate in voter registration activities to promote civic engagement.

The Music Department supports Americanism education by holding Veterans Day programs and teaching students about the history of the National Anthem, women in the military, and American music across the decades. Students practice singing the Star-Spangled Banner and learn songs representing each branch of the military: Army, Navy, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Air Force. Flag etiquette is also taught.

The Art Department commemorates American holidays and figures through creative projects. Students create artwork for Veterans Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Thanksgiving, while also learning about the history of American art.

Southwest Public Schools celebrates several national holidays with educational programming and activities, including Memorial Day, Veterans Day (with a special program), Thanksgiving, Presidents Day, Constitution Day, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. These observances further reinforce American values, historical reflection, and civic pride in students.

Through a cross-disciplinary approach that integrates history, civics, geography, arts, music, and reading, Southwest Public Schools remains committed to fostering patriotism, historical understanding, and active citizenship in all students.