Educators.

Every day, all over the country, teachers are helping their students learn democracy by doing democracy. Mikva partners with teachers to support this work by providing student-focused, project-based, experiential curricula and professional development workshops. In our Partner Sites, Mikva also collaborates with school districts to build transformative youth voice infrastructure – including events that connect the community with students’ issue-focused speeches and projects.

Mikva Challenge is now recruiting for 2025-26 school year educator professional learning opportunities in Chicago!

Do you want to bring high impact and experiential civic learning to YOUR classroom? Mikva Challenge supports educators in developing youth to be empowered, informed, and active citizens who will promote a just and equitable society.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through August 15, 2025 (priority given to early applicants).

• Click to access the Mikva Challenge Educator Fellowship Application 

Learn more about the programs Mikva Challenge operates in Chicago during the school year:

Mikva Challenge Educator Fellowship

A yearlong professional development opportunity in partnership with CPS Department of Social Science for Chicago-based social science educators working with students in grades 5–12. Through eight synchronous sessions and a summer workshop, fellows deeply engage with Mikva’s Issues to Action framework, gaining tools to lead real-world civic learning and support students in addressing community issues. Participants collaborate with Mikva staff and peers, apply what they learn in their own contexts, and develop a showcase project that highlights youth leadership and civic engagement. Click here to read the Mikva Educator Fellowship overview.