ABERDEEN, S.D. – Two Northern State University faculty members recently contributed to statewide conversations on civic education and American history during the South Dakota Historical Society's 2026 Annual History Conference, held June 1-3 in Fort Pierre, South Dakota.
Dr. Christian D. Pirlet, assistant professor of educational technology in Northern's School of Education, and Dr. Jon Schaff, professor of political science in the College of Arts and Sciences, took part in the annual conference, which commemorated the 250th anniversary of American independence and explored the nation's founding principles, constitutional history, American Indian legal issues, historical scholarship and approaches to teaching history in advance of the United States' semi-quincentennial.
The conference brought together scholars, historians, educators, legal experts and public officials from across South Dakota and beyond for presentations and discussions examining the people, places and stories that have shaped the state and nation.
As part of the conference's teacher-focused sessions, Pirlet presented "Teaching Difficult Histories: The Legacy of Slavery .” The session geared to high school teachers explored approaches for teaching slavery within the context of the United States Constitution using demographic data, primary sources and narrative accounts. Participants examined ways to balance confronting historical injustice with critical reflection, reconciliation and civic dialogue while gaining practical strategies for confidently teaching difficult history.
"Civic education is essential to preparing students to become informed, thoughtful and engaged citizens," Pirlet said. "History classrooms provide students with opportunities to examine evidence, consider multiple perspectives and develop the critical thinking skills necessary for informed citizens."
Schaff presented "The Political Thought of the Declaration," a session designed to promote a deeper appreciation for the Declaration of Independence by comparing its ideas to ancient political thought and exploring key principles of modern political philosophy. Participants examined concepts including natural equality, natural rights and consent of the governed as expressed in the Declaration of Independence. The presentation concluded with an examination of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and its enduring call to preserve the Declaration's ideals during the America 250 commemoration.
Schaff and Pirlet's participation highlighted Northern State University's commitment to fostering civic engagement and preparing future educators and leaders to thoughtfully examine history and participate in democratic society.
Photo courtesy of Richard Carlson
