Celebrating Founders Month, Freedom Week, and Constitution Day in Citrus County Schools

On September 17th, Citrus County Schools, along with schools across Florida and the nation, commemorate a pivotal moment in American history—the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Constitution Day and the accompanying Freedom Week provide an opportunity for reflection, learning, and celebration of the document that established the foundation of our democracy.

During Freedom Week, which spans the entire third week of September, our schools adhere to state mandates ensuring students engage with the core principles of American democracy. Florida’s Celebrate Freedom Week statute requires students to dedicate at least three hours of study to the Declaration of Independence within their social studies curriculum. This focused study helps students grasp the Declaration’s crucial role in shaping the nation’s values, alongside the U.S. Constitution.

Throughout Constitution and Freedom Week, Citrus County students participate in activities designed to deepen their understanding of our founding documents. It’s always a highlight to visit our schools during this period, witnessing students enthusiastically exploring the principles that have shaped our nation. These educational experiences are closely tied to our district’s commitment to honoring our veterans, demonstrating the vital connection between the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and those who have served to protect them.

Thanks to the generosity of Citrus County Supervisor of Elections Maureen “Mo” Baird, all Civics and Government students will receive a pocket-sized copy of the U.S. Constitution. This tangible gift serves as a constant reminder of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. I extend special thanks to Superintendent-elect Dr. Scott Hebert, Supervisor of Instructional Services Al Balk, our dedicated teachers, and district administrators for ensuring these important pocket Constitutions reach our students. Additionally, every Citrus County Schools student has access to our country’s founding documents on their school-issued iPads.

In 2004, the U.S. Congress passed legislation designating September 17th as Constitution Day, requiring public schools to dedicate at least three hours to teaching about the Constitution. In Citrus County, we further observe this through Founders Month and Freedom Week.

More than just a commemorative event, this week is a powerful opportunity to instill in our students a profound appreciation for the rights and freedoms we enjoy. As the nation’s first Purple Heart School District, with all our schools designated as Florida Purple Star Schools, Citrus County Schools places special emphasis on recognizing the sacrifices made by our veterans. By combining education with respect for our military personnel, we ensure that students understand their civic duties and the legacy they inherit as citizens.

As we celebrate Constitution Day and Freedom Week, Citrus County Schools will continue to uphold and teach the principles that form the foundation of our nation. Through understanding these documents and honoring those who have fought to protect them, we ensure their significance endures for generations to come.

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