The Amistad Commission’s
Teacher LeaderSHIP Committee

The purpose of the Amistad Commission’s Teacher Leadership Committee is develop lesson plans, lead sessions at the Summer Institute and support the mission of the Amistad Commission by providing feedback and insight as K-12 educators. They play a vital role in ensuring the work of the commission is helpful and impactful for teachers and students.

The committee will consist of 25 highly qualified teachers (HQT) divided into five (5) groups by grade level:

  • Group 1 Primary Grades: Kindergarten, First, and Second Grades (K-2)

  • Group 2 Intermediate Grades: Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grades (3-5)

  • Group 3 Middle School Grades: Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Grades (6-8)

  • Group 4 High School Grades: Ninth, Tenth Eleventh, and Twelfth Grades (9-12)

  • Group 5 Historical Accuracy Panel: Final review to authenticate the accuracy of K-12 selected lesson plans.

Highly Qualified Teacher (HQT) Criteria

  • Holds at least a bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution

  • Holds standard New Jersey state teacher certification and demonstrates competence in each core academic subject the teacher instructs

Additional Criteria for Individuals Interested in Serving on Group 5, the Historical Accuracy Panel

  • A doctorate in History or African American Studies preferred or completing a doctoral program in American or African American History

  • Others will be considered based on their level of experience and accomplishments

Duties of the Amistad Commission’s Teacher Leadership Committee

  • Committee members will serve for a one-year term, at least

  • One person per group will serve as the group chair and vice chair for at least one year

  • Groups will meet virtually (twice a month) to discuss model lessons submitted to the Amistad Office as well as assist in the planning of Amistad Commission’s activities, events and professional developments, etc.

  • Committee members will be expected to assist Amistad staff in providing professional development or in-service workshops in their respective school districts

  • Committee members will be responsible for selecting student projects for the Amistad Commission’s Special Award from the National History Day Contest

  • Committee Chairs or vice chair committee will present at the Amistad Summer Curriculum Institute for educators

  • Committee members will screen applications for the Amistad Commission’s Exemplary Award

  • Planning and participation in the Amistad Commission’s New Jersey African American History Day Contest (Fourth & Fifth Grades)

Additional Details

  • Each member of the Teacher Leadership Committee will receive a $1,000 award for a year of service.

  • If you are interested in serving on one of the above committees, please complete the form: https://forms.office.com/r/eG24yyEDV3

    If you have any questions please send an email to: Amistadsp@doe.nj.gov