Stars, Stripes, and Spies: Teaching the Secret History of America
A Professional Development Workshop presented by the International Spy Museum
Step into the shadow world of espionage in this immersive, five-day professional development teacher institute at the International Spy Museum in Washington, DC. Designed for current secondary history and social studies teachers, this institute uses the lens of intelligence and espionage to uncover pivotal moments in U.S. history, from the American Revolution to the Global War on Terror.
During the institute, participants will explore declassified stories, examine authentic artifacts, and engage with content experts through hands-on, inquiry-based strategies. At the conclusion of the workshop, teachers will walk away with new historical insights, ready-to-use classroom materials, and creative strategies for incorporating American intelligence into their U.S. history curriculum.
Participating educators will…
- Earn 27 professional development hours and exclusive access to Museum’s exhibits, resources, content experts, and artifacts.
- Collaborate with other educators to share ideas, network, and gain new perspectives.
- Hear from former intelligence professionals, content experts, and Spy Museum educators.
- Enhance their content knowledge about US history and the significant role that intelligence has played over the years.
- Create a variety of resources that they can use in their classroom.
Important Intel.:
- Applications will be accepted from December 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027.
- The institute is intended for current secondary U.S. social studies and history teachers (grades 6-12). Teachers from other subject areas are welcome to apply and should explain in their application how they will use the institute’s content and resources in their classrooms.
- 20 teachers will be selected for this institute. Notifications will be sent out via email by April 1, 2027.
- Following the workshop, attendees will be required to create and deliver one professional development session for their school or district during the 2027-28 academic year. More information about this will be given to attendees.
- All educators will receive:
- Daily meal stipend for the duration of the workshop.
- Travel reimbursement for travel to and from DC (up to a certain amount).
- A single-occupancy room at the Hilton Washington, DC National Mall (across the street from the Museum).
- Books, resources, and materials.
- Access to the Spy Museum exhibits for the duration of the workshop.
- A certificate of completion for professional development hours (upon completion).
