Become a LIBERTY FELLOW at New College of Florida
Teachers, a new professional development opportunity begins February 12, 2026! New College of Florida is proud to announce a transformative project funded by the U.S. Department of Education for teachers grades 5-12. Our grant, Invigorating Liberty and Self-Governance: First Principles for 21st Century America honors the United States Semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of America and the Declaration of Independence. NCF’s program offers local teachers and students the opportunity to connect deeply with the ideas and principles that shaped our nation, and to cultivate habits of liberty and self-governance that will sustain our republic.
TEACHER STIPEND & ELIGIBILITY
- Commitment: Teachers commit to one year of the program at a time.
- $1,000 Stipend: Participating teachers are eligible to receive a $1,000 stipend.
- Continuing Education Credit: Participating teachers earn hours toward their requirements.
- Completion Requirement: To qualify for the stipend, participants must complete at least 80% of the scheduled program hours and complete a pre- and post- test.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
This three-year initiative includes:
- Live Seminars: In-person seminars for teachers, serving annual cohorts of up to 50 participants.
- Summer Experiences: Summer Institute experience offering immersive learning at New College.
- Digital Resources: Digital learning programs designed to extend the project’s reach.
PROGRAM DURATION/DATES
- Duration: 80 hours
- Upcoming Seminars: Socratic Stage evening events: February 12, 2026 & March 26, 2026; Conferences (Friday evening and Saturday): March 6-7, 2026 & April 24-25, 2026
- Summer Liberty Fellows Institute Experience: June 15-19, 2026
In year one, the 2026 Liberty Fellows cohort will focus on the documents of the founding era. Fellows will engage with distinguished faculty and visiting scholars, including Dr. Matthew Spalding, author of The Making of the American Mind: The Story of Our Declaration of Independence. The project is led by New College professors Casey Wheatland, David Ellis, and Richard Izquierdo.
Apply below! Deadline extended to January 31, 2026!
