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Teaching Kentucky History Institute

Teaching Kentucky History Institute

The Kentucky Historical Society is excited to present another year of the Teaching Kentucky History Institute (TKHI), a unique professional learning opportunity for Social Studies educators in Kentucky during the summer of 2026.  

TKHI will feature discussions where participants will explore Kentucky’s early history under the guidance of esteemed Kentucky-based scholars. There will also be on-the-road visits to historically significant sites across Kentucky, with accommodations provided by KHS. This experiential approach aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of Kentucky’s rich heritage. By the end of the institute, participants will leave not only with a wealth of knowledge but also with innovative teaching strategies and resources to bring Kentucky history to the forefront of their classroom. 

 

Program Highlights  

Duration: Five days of immersive content-rich learning  

Focus: In-depth exploration and discussion of Kentucky’s early history, spanning from Statehood to the rise of Andrew Jackson.  

Affordable: Selected participants will be responsible for their transportation to and from Frankfort, and a few meals. The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) will cover all other expenses related to the TKHI program. 

 

Application Components 

To be considered, all application materials must be received by December 15, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed after this date. 

Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation are required from a current supervisor or colleague. If submitted via email, please address the letters to elsie.merlie@ky.gov and include “TKHI 2026 RECOMMENDATION” in the subject line. Letters may also be sent to KHS c/o Elsie Merlie, 100 W Broadway St., Frankfort, KY 40601. 

Microsoft Form: To be considered, please complete the TKHI 2026 application form available through the “Apply Now” button at the bottom of the page. We kindly ask that you provide thoughtful, clear, and thorough responses to the prompts. 

Applicants do not need expertise in the program's topics. The TKHI offers content-rich professional learning for educators seeking to grow in these areas.

Submitting this application signifies your commitment to fully participate in the Teaching Kentucky History Institute scheduled for July 7-11, 2026, should you be selected. This commitment encompasses, but is not limited to, completing the pre-institute readings, attending a virtual preparation session, actively engaging in all sessions and activities, and attending the entire duration of the program. 

The selection committee will evaluate participants for the 2026 program based on the following criteria: 

  • A demonstrated commitment to social studies instruction.
  • A plan to disseminate your learning among colleagues.
  • Geographic representation from across Kentucky to ensure statewide inclusivity.
  • An agreement to fully participate in all five days of programming. 

Educators selected to participate in TKHI will be notified by February 15, 2026. If you have any questions about the program or need to withdraw your name from consideration at any time, please contact elsie.merlie@ky.gov for assistance. 

*TKHI 2025 participants are eligible to apply. 

2025 Teaching Kentucky History Institute Educator Testimonials 

“I think that bringing educators together for this program was impactful to all parties involved. It gave me the opportunity to not just learn more in-depth Kentucky history, but to learn from my fellow professionals about how they engage their students in learning. I feel a bond with my fellow teachers from TKHI that will continue on through staying in touch, collaboration, and sharing resources. All of the KHS staff were warm, kind, and helpful. I appreciate and am grateful to be selected for this experience.” 

“The TKHI was an unforgettable and invaluable experience for me as an educator. No other learning experience has better equipped me with the tools to teach Kentucky history like the TKHI has. The TKHI would not have been successful without the people from the KHS that put this on. Every single one of them were so kind and helpful with any question I came up with.”