Civics & Citizenship

Recapture Our American Civil Discourse

Candace teaches the notions of liberty that inspired the American system of government.
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Understanding the National Guard’s Dual Role

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When storms hit our nation or major protests erupt, who shows up to protect our communities? Our National Guard is uniquely positioned as both a state‑controlled force and a federal reserve. Let's dispel some common misconceptions. One of my students' questions will serve as a springboard for our discussion. Why the No Kings Talk Matters My Jr. High civics class and I were discussing what the No Kings protests were about. The dialogue went something like this: Teacher (me): "We have never had a king in our country. Kings are anointed and rule over their subjects. The President of the United States is elected by We the People. We are not subjects. We are citizens." Twelve-year-old student:  "My dad says the president is a dictator because he is sending the army into the states." Teacher: Article II of the Constitution (which we have studied briefly) says this: "The executive power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America."  It does NOT say …

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The Cloward‑Piven Playbook: Crisis‑Driven Change

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The "Cloward-Piven strategy" was developed by sociologists Richard Cloward and Frances Fox Piven in the 1960s. I was an observer in a conversation of intellectual types that included people who believe this is what is happening in the United States. The description of this political theory/strategy varies, depending on who you talk to. Although it was dismissed as a failed experiment in the 1960s and 1970s, the strategy is still mentioned, so we should be aware of its intention to transform the United States into something our Founding Fathers never intended. Defining the Cloward-Piven Strategy In general, the Cloward-Piven strategy is described as a back-door plan to change a country into a welfare state. I also read a friend's definition that describes it as a multi-step plan to destabilize a country's institutions through mass immigration and welfare policies. Another way this strategy has been defined is to organize anti-poverty groups to create a political crisis, thereby …

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Candace has a variety of teaching experiences and is a certified instructor for adults and homeschoolers through the Institute on the Constitution. Her hobbies include walking, world travel, Pilates, writing, and spending time with her grandsons. …

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Recent Articles

Understanding the National Guard’s Dual Role

When storms hit our nation or major protests erupt, who shows up to protect our communities? Our National Guard is uniquely positioned as both a state‑controlled force and a federal reserve. Let’s dispel some common misconceptions. One of my students’ questions will serve as a springboard for our discussion. Why the No Kings Talk Matters […]

The Cloward‑Piven Playbook: Crisis‑Driven Change

The “Cloward-Piven strategy” was developed by sociologists Richard Cloward and Frances Fox Piven in the 1960s. I was an observer in a conversation of intellectual types that included people who believe this is what is happening in the United States. The description of this political theory/strategy varies, depending on who you talk to. Although it […]

Returning to the Declaration; America’s Roots

As we continue to study the Declaration of Independence, let’s examine the opening line of this founding document and connect it to current events in the United States. Historical Context: 1775‑76 vs. Today “The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one […]

Basic Bill of Rights Quiz

Test your knowledge of the Bill of Rights. How many of these Jr. High quick quiz questions can you answer? 1. Congress cannot prohibit the free exercise of _____________. 2. Who cannot be quartered in your home without your permission? ___________ 3. As an American, you have the right to keep and bear_______. 4. The […]

Faith, Freedom, and the Founders’ Words

As a lead-up to our country’s 250th birthday celebration, we are continuing in our study of the Declaration of Independence.  In my research, I have found it beneficial to look at some of the “back stories” of the Declaration. (for example,  Charles Carroll, the longest living signer of the Declaration.) The Religious Landscape of the […]

America’s Quiet Adoption of Communist Goals

(Although written five years ago, this article is highly relevant in 2025, and helps explain what is going on in the electorate today). Historical Context & W. Cleon Skousen’s Blueprint How much has communism subtly infiltrated America and become accepted? What, you ask?? I found a fascinating article by Dr. Ileana Johnson Paugh, where she […]

Leaders Lead: A Commentary

I teach my Civics and Constitution students this principle: “The life of the leader sets the course for the people.” So, the generals need to lose weight and get fit. They have new rules to follow and enforce. Yet, their attitude seemed to be, “he called us here for this???” Yes, setting the course for […]

Building Influence: Personal Impact on Society

Who is in your circle of influence? Let’s start by asking who you are closest to in daily life. Your Closest Circle: Trust and Influence Who knows you best? Who do you advise? Who trusts you? Our very closest friends, with whom we share our lives, form relationships with us based on trust, loyalty, and […]

Facing the 2025 Government Shutdown

As autumn arrives, the looming October 1, 2025 deadline forces every American to confront what a federal shutdown truly means for daily life.” As autumn arrives, it is time for us to discuss the impending government shutdown and its impact on daily life. This is a civics and citizenship issue, so let’s discuss. What if there is […]