The New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission (NJIHC) is proud to announce its participation in this year’s New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) Convention, taking place November 7-8, 2024, at the Atlantic City Convention Center. The NJIHC will highlight its acclaimed K-12 Curriculum and unveil new lesson plans on “The Creation of America: The Roman Legacy,” the principles that helped shape America.

The NJEA Convention is the largest gathering of educators in the state, providing an invaluable opportunity for professional development, collaboration, and showcasing innovative teaching resources. The NJIHC’s exhibit will introduce educators to its comprehensive, standards-based curriculum that promotes the rich history and contributions of Italian Americans while integrating essential lessons on cultural diversity and heritage.

At the forefront of this year’s exhibit is the newly developed lesson plan series titled “The Creation of America: The Roman Legacy,” which explores the profound influence of Roman history, law, architecture, and philosophy on the founding of the United States. These lesson plans provide educators with engaging resources to teach students about the Roman foundations of American democracy, emphasizing the historical links between classical antiquity and the U.S. Constitution, judicial system, and civic values.

Highlights of the NJIHC Exhibit Include:

• K-12 Curriculum Resources: Educators will have access to a wide range of grade-appropriate materials covering topics such as Italian American history, cultural achievements, and contributions across various fields.
• New Lesson Plans: The debut of “The Creation of America: The Roman Legacy,” offering in-depth content for history, social studies, and civics classrooms.
• Expert Guidance: NJIHC representatives will be on hand to guide educators on best practices for incorporating Italian American heritage and Roman influences into their teaching strategies.

Chairwoman Emerita and Head of the NJIHC Curriculum Committee, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, expressed her enthusiasm for the exhibit:  “We are excited to return to the NJEA Convention and present resources that not only highlight Italian American contributions but also help educators bring history to life in the classroom. Our new lesson plans on The Creation of America: The Roman Legacy offer a fresh and dynamic way for students to connect ancient history with the principles that shaped America.”

The NJIHC invites all educators to visit their booth to learn more about these valuable teaching tools, which align with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards and are designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage and civic understanding.

About the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission
The NJIHC is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history, culture, and contributions of Italian Americans in New Jersey. Through its K-12 curriculum and educational initiatives, the Commission seeks to enrich the understanding of Italian American heritage and ensure its place within the broader narrative of American history.