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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 Kentucky Social Studies educators in summer 2027.

TKHI will feature discussions where participants will explore Kentucky 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 for 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

Dates: July 13-17, 2027

Focus: A detailed exploration and dialogue surrounding the experiences of enslaved individuals in Kentucky, the Underground Railroad, and the events leading up to the Civil War.

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

 

Application Components 

To be considered, all application materials must be received by January 31, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed after this date.

Letters of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation is required from a current supervisor or colleague. If submitted via email, please address the letters to elsie.merlie@ky.gov and include "TKHI 2027 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 2027 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 are not expected to have expertise in the topics covered during the program. The TKHI is designed to provide content-rich professional learning for educators who identify these topics as areas for needed growth. 

Submitting this application signifies your commitment to fully participate in the Teaching Kentucky History Institute scheduled for July 13-17, 2027, 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 2027 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 March 1, 2027. 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.

 

*Past TKHI participants are eligible to apply.

 

Educator Testimonials

“This was one of, if not the best, content specific institutes that I’ve been to. I really enjoyed having the field trips spread throughout the week to break up direct instruction. 10/10 would recommend, will be recommending people to go to future institutes.”

“Outstanding. Organized. Professional. Insightful. These are the watchwords of this and last year's institute. I am grateful to have been a part of it.”

“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.”