Civics & Citizenship

Recapture Our American Civil Discourse

Candace teaches the notions of liberty that inspired the American system of government.
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Defending American Values in a Divided Age

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Are you being harassed for your American views on law and government? Are you being overpowered in conversations, where no amount of logic or civil discourse can occur? Are you being bullied into accepting robbery, arson, theft, and violence as “normal” or “necessary”? Why Traditionalism Still Matters You are not alone. Remember, it’s ok to be a traditional American. It’s ok to stand up for American values and not be intimidated. Americans reject racism and injustice. We believe in equal justice under the law. We know that our unalienable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (which includes our property) comes from God, not from government. Unlawful protests, which include robbery, theft, arson, and rioting, are against the law. I shouldn’t have to say that, but many are defending such actions as necessary. Anarchy, which is the desire to do away with all governmental authority in favor of direct democracy, is what our Founders termed “mob …

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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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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

Defending American Values in a Divided Age

Are you being harassed for your American views on law and government? Are you being overpowered in conversations, where no amount of logic or civil discourse can occur? Are you being bullied into accepting robbery, arson, theft, and violence as “normal” or “necessary”? Why Traditionalism Still Matters You are not alone. Remember, it’s ok to […]

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 […]