In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) continues its statewide initiative, Arkansas Celebrates America250 (ACA250). This update highlights January’s theme, Arkansas Innovators, and February's Building Pathways. 

Through the Journey Across Arkansas dashboard, schools can access standards-aligned, ready-to-use resources that highlight the innovators who have shaped Arkansas’s progress.

In January, educators and students are invited to:

• Connect with our nation’s history by exploring the stories of Arkansans whose innovations have influenced medicine, technology, and education nationwide,
• Celebrate Arkansas’s unique story by honoring the vision, determination, and ingenuity of local pioneers who have driven progress and inspired generations, and
• Contribute to our state’s future success through enrollment in STEM fields, employment in high-skill industries and entrepreneurship, and enlistment that applies innovation in service to national advancement.

In February, educators and students are invited to:

• Connect with our nation’s history by recognizing how Arkansans have worked within a democratic system to uphold constitutional rights and expand opportunities, 
• Celebrate Arkansas’s unique story by honoring the strength and leadership of individuals and communities who advanced opportunity and upheld Arkansas’s core values, and 
• Contribute to our state’s future success through enrollment in civics, law, and public service programs; employment that promotes strong families and communities; and enlistment to defend the ideals of liberty and justice.

Map Expedition: Ready-to-Use Lessons

These self-guided or teacher-directed lessons highlight Arkansas’s heritage and innovation.

Navigator Expedition: The Forgotten Tales of Arkansas

Excerpts from The Forgotten Tales of Arkansas is a special-edition book featuring short, historical stories from across the state. It is designed for students in grades 5–12. Participating schools receive physical copies, digital access, and The Writing Revolution aligned lessons that support reading and writing. Schools can access the instructional resources through a DESE Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Navigator Expedition: Sharing Arkansas’s Stories

Building on The Forgotten Tales of Arkansas Expedition, Sharing Arkansas’s Stories is a statewide storytelling and community history project for Arkansas students grades 9-12. Participants choose one of three pathways to research and submit stories that become part of a statewide digital archive.

Passport Expedition: Connecting Arkansas Families

Families are encouraged to embark on the Passport Expedition, connecting K–5 learners to Arkansas museums, historic sites, and state parks. By downloading and registering their Passport, families can explore local heritage landmarks and earn a commemorative award upon completing their Journey Across Arkansas.

Stay Connected

ADE invites you to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by making ACA250 a shared experience for students and communities across the state. Together, we can prepare and inspire Arkansas’s next generation to connect with their heritage, celebrate our traditions, and contribute to the future.

For more information, visit https://america250.ade.arkansas.gov. Share highlights and questions at america250@ade.arkansas.gov, and celebrate online with #ACA250.