As our nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment to reflect on our shared story and collective future.
Each year the Smithsonian National Education Summit brings together thousands of librarians, administrators, teachers, and museum professionals to help spark their curiosity, deepen their understanding, and return to their learners with renewed purpose. This year’s Smithsonian National Education Summit—Together We Thrive: Towards a More Perfect Union—is more than a conference; it is a collaborative call to action for educators to bridge their expertise and build a future where every student has the tools, the voice, and the community support they need to truly thrive.
You are invited to join the Smithsonian’s education team and national collaborators for this free three-day program from July 14 to 16, 2026. Whether you participate in person in Washington, DC, or through the summit’s interactive online platform, you will gain actionable strategies and fresh perspectives for every learning environment.
The summit session strands connect civics to the arts, history, and STEM/STEAM. Plus, a specialized strand offers insights into the Smithsonian Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange program, with educators and students sharing how object-based, place-based, and project-based inquiry can create the conditions for meaningful civic dialogue.
Below are three of the free online sessions that will be featured at the 2026 Smithsonian National Education Summit. (The full calendar is posted on the summit’s website.)
Why Local Stories Matter in a 250-Year Journey
Tuesday, July 14, 12:00–12:50 p.m. (ET)
This session will explore how young people can deepen civic understanding by investigating the stories, objects, and places that define their hometowns. Drawing on values from the Preamble—diversity, innovation, and perseverance—participants in the session will consider how these values show up in their communities.
Beyond the Visit: Smithsonian Digital Tools
Tuesday, July 14, 1:00–1:50 p.m. (ET)
In this session, participants will discover digital objects for real-world 3D exploration, online exhibits that surface local community stories, and thinking routines that expand historical narratives and foster dialogue. They will leave with practical implementation strategies and insights from educators who have already brought these tools to life.
Inventor Stories to Inspire the Next Generation
Tuesday, July 14, 2:00–2:50 p.m. (ET)
Invention education, which lives at the intersection of civics and STEAM disciplines, offers educators opportunities to weave hands-on activities and student-led inquiry into their instruction. In this session, speakers from Smithsonian Education will demonstrate practical strategies that can help teachers bring inventive habits of mind and innovative thinking into the classroom through video interviews and ready-to-use educational resources.
Preregistration is required to attend the Smithsonian National Education Summit. Secure your spot today—and invite a colleague to join you in building the scaffolding for a more perfect union this July.