Free Pocket Constitution for Classroom: How Teachers Are Building Civic Engagement for America's 250th Anniversary

This spring, teachers from across the country gathered at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia to create lessons for America's 250th anniversary. Their mission? To help students explore the founding principles that shaped our nation and wrestle with how we live them out today. The momentum is real. In a 2024 survey, 82 percent of teachers said it is important for students to learn about the U.S. Constitution and its core values. But many educators struggle to find classroom-ready resources that spark genuine engagement. That is where free pocket Constitutions come in. When students hold an actual copy of the founding document, something shifts. It becomes real. Concrete. Personal. WHY CONSTITUTION DAY MATTERS Constitution Day falls on September 17 - just four months away. For 8th grade teachers, it is the perfect opportunity to anchor a civics unit that resonates. The 917 Society has done this work for thousands of classrooms. Every year, we partner with schools to distribute free pocket Constitutions to all 8th graders, complete with teaching guides and classroom discussion prompts. WHAT YOU GET (NO PURCHASE REQUIRED) Free pocket Constitutions: One per student, shipping included. Classroom activity guides: Ready-to-use lessons tied to your civics curriculum. Discussion prompts to help students connect founding principles to modern examples. No bulk shipping costs. No budget approval needed. TIMING MATTERS Constitution Day shipments begin in July, with delivery by early September. Now is the time to submit your classroom request at 917society.org/order-constitutions. If you teach 8th grade, there is no donation required. For other grade levels, a small donation supports the program. WHY THIS MATTERS IN 2026 2026 is America's 250th birthday. A free pocket Constitution is not just a handout - it is an invitation for your students to become informed citizens. Learn more at 917society.org.