Online Resource That Captures the American Spirit

The Great Hearts Institute  is very pleased to announce a partnership with What So Proudly We Hail, an e-curriculum developed by distinguished teacher-scholars Drs. Amy and Leon Kass to aid in the classroom instruction of American history, civics, social studies, and language arts.

With the generous support of Leon Kass, and in honor of his late wife Amy Kass, Great Hearts is proud to host the entire What So Proudly We Hail website for open use by teachers and students – including a library of primary texts, lesson plans, discussion videos, author biographies, and more.  The website serves as a one-stop source for free, literary-based curricula to aid in the classroom instruction of American history, civics, social studies, and language arts. Explore this site to find creative lesson plans, video seminars, primary resources, and much more.

“We are delighted to present some of the finest scholarship available for the benefit of K-12 teacher exploring the American experience through story, poetry, and song,” says Dr. Robert L. Jackson, Executive Director of the Great Hearts Institute. “The American spirit is authentically captured in the words, music, and memorable characters of these beloved works, effectively enriching the imaginative lives of all students. To know the most popular tales and tunes from America’s 250-year history brings students closer to their predecessors, providing a deeper sense of meaning to the cherished ideals of the country’s founding: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. What So Proudly We Hail touches upon those ideals with empathy, intelligence, and affection for those who have gone before us.”

What So Proudly We Hail was launched in 2013 as an online supplement to an anthology.  It has since grown to include a library of nearly 500 primary texts and five curricular collections.

Dr. Jackson had the opportunity to speak with Professor Diana Schaub during the latest episode of the Institute’s VIRTUE Podcast.   “I had a pretty decent acquaintance with American Literature as well as basic American Political Documents,” said Schaub.  “My task was to search out additional short stories from the American canon that would fit within the organizing categories that [Amy Kass] already had.  It was just great fun.”

You can watch the entire interview with Professor Schaub below:

The Great Hearts Institute also hosts the National Symposium for Classical Education.  This annual event serves as a forum where Great Hearts teachers and school leaders join classical educators from around the country to experience the finest research and training available.

In 2023, the National Symposium for Classical Education will be held in Phoenix, February 22-24, and will focus on The Tradition Today – an exploration of classical education in a modern society and its relevance in a world preoccupied with the growing influence of social media and the race for the next technological advancement. Hosting professionals, professors, artists, and thought leaders, the Great Hearts Institute will provide Great Hearts Academies and scores of other classical schools with a robust 3-day program designed to nurture the continued growth of classical education in America.

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts?  Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.