In recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution, the New York State Education Department’s (NYSED) Office of Standards and Instruction (OSI) has developed a new interdisciplinary resource guide. This historic milestone presents a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the enduring lessons of the past while supporting instruction aligned with the New York State Learning Standards.

Established through Chapter 732 of the Laws of 2021, Governor Hochul created the New York State 250th Commemoration Commission to promote public engagement and illuminate New York’s pivotal role in the American Revolution, civil rights, and the broader history of liberty and freedom. To support this statewide initiative, the OSI has developed the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution Resource Guide, a comprehensive instructional resource designed to help educators explore the complex and inspiring history of the Revolution and the founding of the nation. The guide is organized around six Interpretive Themes identified in the NYS Commemoration Field Guide. These themes serve as enduring understandings that anchor instruction across elementary, middle, and high school levels.

The guide features interdisciplinary, standards-based learning experiences, including adaptable resources, instructional prompts, and project-based learning ideas. A defining feature of the guide is its emphasis on experiential learning, with each instructional prompt paired with opportunities for students to engage directly with New York’s rich collection of Revolutionary War sites.

The resource also aligns with NYSED’s strategic priorities, including the Portrait of a Graduate, by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem solving. At the high school level, the activities are further connected to the Seal of Civic Readiness, reinforcing civic engagement.
The 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution New York State Resource Guide is available at no cost on the Office of Standards and Instruction website. For questions regarding the guide, please contact the Office of Standards and Instruction at P12StandardsInstruction@nysed.gov or 518-474-5922.