One of the largest struggles for teachers at IA is blending the project-based learning style IA prides itself on and the rigorous AP curriculum that College Board demands. This fine line to tread upon proves difficult, but the ‘24-‘25’s push towards furthering project based learning has led to some incredible ideas among teachers! One such teacher is Mr. McGillicuddy, AP Government and Politics teacher. Using ideas he gained from the AP Summer Institute and his observations from his 3 years at IA, he created the Constitutional Commission project. In the project, students will research, debate, and create their own amendments to the constitution.

McGillicuddy hopes the project can ground the often-esoteric concepts found in the constitution, letting students connect with this founding document in a more real way. Another benefit lies in that it takes away from some of the dryness the subject can have, taking content out of a PowerPoint lecture and into student hands -t hose very student hands that will one day have the power to change the world we live in. When that day comes, the skills we learn in IA are what will be the tools of the sculptor. The ability to view diverse viewpoints, argue and debate in a respectful manner, learn and provide positive input are critical skills, all of which this project builds as it readies students to understand the country they live in.