2026-2027 Academy of Critical Thinking Application

The Academy of Critical Thinking offers educators a powerful opportunity to engage deeply with history, reflect on their teaching practice, and collaborate with colleagues from across San Diego County.

This initiative is grounded in a core belief: when educators connect personally with pivotal moments in history, it renews their passion for teaching and deepens their sense of purpose. As part of the Academy, participants will work collaboratively to design meaningful, student-centered lessons that foster critical thinking and reimagine how the Holocaust is taught in our schools.

At the heart of this experience is an immersive visit to the United States Holocaust Museum, monuments, and other landmarks in Washington, D.C., where participants will explore the complexities of Holocaust education and its continued relevance in today's world. In addition to the trip, participants will take part in ongoing professional development and continuing education opportunities throughout the fall and spring semesters, ensuring that the lessons of this experience continue to inspire and inform their practice all year long.

If you're ready to be challenged, inspired, and part of a community committed to thoughtful, transformative teaching, we encourage you to apply.

Your Name

First NameLast Name

Work Email

example@example.com

Personal Email

example@example.com

How do you prefer to be contacted?

School Name (2026-2027 School Year)

What grade level(s) do you teach? If you are not a classroom teacher, indicate the grade level of the students you support. (Mark all that apply.)

Which subject(s) do you teach?

What has inspired you to apply to the Academy of Critical Thinkers, and what do you hope to gain from this experience?

What is one question about teaching the Holocaust - or one challenge you hope to better understand - that you would like to explore through the ACT program?

Participants in the ACT program are expected to bring their learning back to their schools and professional communities. How would you share what you learn through the ACT program with colleagues at your school, district, or professional network? Please describe one or two specific ideas.

Why do you believe Holocaust education remains essential today? In your response, please reflect on what you hope students learn - not only about history, but also about themselves, others, and their responsibilities as members of society.

Travel to Washington, DC is part of the ACT experience. If selected for the 2026-2027 cohort, would you be available to travel with the group the week of November 8-11, 2026?

Have you ever been to the Museum of Tolerance or the Holocaust Museum in Los Angeles, CA?

Have you visited the US Holocaust Museum and Memorial in Washington, D.C.?

How did you find out about the ACT program? Who can we thank for introducing you to us?