Honoring America’s 250th through Education
The Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC) proudly leads Passport to Learning: A Journey Toward America’s 250th, a three-year initiative funded through the U.S. Department of Education’s American History and Civics Education National Activities Grant. This innovative program connects educators and students across eastern Kentucky with high-quality professional learning and immersive civic education experiences that bring American history, civics, and geography to life.
As our nation approaches its **Semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of America’s founding—**Passport to Learning invites teacher leaders and students to rediscover the founding principles, historical challenges, and democratic ideals that continue to shape our country. Through engaging seminars, experiential learning, and community showcases, the initiative deepens understanding of America’s past while inspiring civic responsibility for its future.
What We Do
Deliver innovative seminars and professional development rooted in primary sources, founding documents, and enduring civic traditions.
Equip educators with evidence-based strategies to engage students in critical thinking, civic discourse, and historical inquiry.
Create opportunities for students to explore America’s story through interactive, place-based learning experiences that connect classrooms to the nation’s heritage.
Focus on underserved rural communities, ensuring equitable access to high-quality civic learning across eastern Kentucky.
Why It Matters
“Passport to Learning is about preparing the next generation of informed citizens by giving educators the tools to make history and civics meaningful, relevant, and inspiring,” said Nancy Hutchinson, KEDC CEO. “This grant allows us to honor America’s past while helping students imagine their role in its future.”
The U.S. Department of Education created the American History and Civics Education National Activities Grant program to support new and innovative approaches to teaching the principles of democracy and citizenship. Grants are awarded competitively to organizations with proven expertise and a commitment to expanding civic education nationwide.
Our Impact
KEDC’s Passport to Learning will serve as a cornerstone for professional learning and classroom enrichment throughout the Commonwealth. By empowering teachers and engaging students, the initiative will create lasting impact well beyond 2026—strengthening civic understanding, community connection, and pride in America’s ongoing story.