2026 Summer Leadership Institute (SLI)

The 2026 Summer Leadership Institute (SLI), themed 'Leadership & Advocacy in the America 250 Moment,' is a two-and-a-half-day leadership experience hosted by the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) in Washington, D.C. It is designed to strengthen the capacity of social studies educators and leaders to lead, advocate, and grow social studies within their states. Leveraging the national backdrop of America 250, the institute connects civic milestones with practical strategies for building partnerships, supporting educators, expanding council reach, and advancing key issues in social studies education alongside peers from across the country. The program includes visits to place-based educational sites like the National Archives, Museum of the Bible, and The People's House. Participants also have the option to extend their involvement by joining a 'Hill Day' on July 15, held in partnership with iCivics, to engage in direct advocacy.