The Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) is committed to supporting schools in providing meaningful learning experiences that prepare students to become informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. 

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Commemorative Days

This guide was developed to help Montana public schools implement House Bill 591 and the commemorative observances identified in § 20-1-306, MCA, including Freedom Week. It provides educators with classroom ideas, trusted educational resources, and practical tools to promote civic education, historical understanding, and active citizenship.  

OPI hopes this guide serves as a valuable resource for schools across Montana, helping students explore our nation's founding principles, Montana's history, and the shared values of liberty, democracy, and civic responsibility. 

HB 591: Institute the Celebrate Freedom Week in Montana's public schools

HB 591 (2025 Session) designated the last full week of September as Freedom Week in public schools. District trustees must adopt a policy ensuring appropriate commemorative exercises are conducted on the days listed in law. The law took effect July 1, 2025.  

Purpose of Freedom Week

Freedom Week provides Montana schools with an opportunity to engage students in meaningful learning about the founding principles of the United States and the enduring values of liberty, democracy, and civic responsibility. Through age-appropriate instruction, students explore foundational documents such as the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights while developing an understanding of the rights, responsibilities, and sacrifices that have shaped our nation. Freedom Week encourages students to become informed, engaged citizens who appreciate the importance of preserving freedom and participating in their communities.  

School & District Responsibilities

Montana school districts play an important role in ensuring that students have opportunities to learn about the nation's history, founding principles, and civic responsibilities. Under House Bill 591 and § 20-1-306, MCA, district trustees are responsible for adopting a policy that provides for appropriate commemorative exercises on the days identified in state law, including Freedom Week. Schools should incorporate age-appropriate instructional activities that encourage students to explore the values of freedom, democracy, and responsible citizenship through engaging, meaningful learning experiences. 

  • District trustees must adopt a written policy that ensures appropriate exercises are conducted on required commemorative days listed in §20-1-306, MCA (including Freedom Week).  
  • Schools should plan and deliver age-appropriate activities during Celebrate Freedom Week that teach students about the sacrifices made for freedom in the founding of the United States and the values on which the United States was founded. 

The U.S. Department of Education recommended activities to consider: 

  • Host a guest speaker (legal expert, historian, public official) on a constitutional topic. 
  • Organize a panel with students, educators, and community members on a principle (e.g., separation of powers) or a current event. 
  • Conduct a public reading of the Constitution with students, staff, families, and community members. 
  • Run a mock Constitutional Convention with historical roles. 
  • Interactive workshops leveraging the National Constitution Center & National Archives (games, online exhibits; Bill of Rights focus). 
  • Local/State history connections (how Montana events tie to constitutional issues; include the Montana Constitution). 

  • U.S. Department of Education — Constitution Day & Citizenship Day: central hub of vetted, public-domain teaching materials across all three branches.  
  • National Archives — Teachers’ Resources & primary sources; Civics for All of US. 
  • Library of Congress — Constitution Day Teacher Resources & Research Guides, including the Constitution Annotated.  
  • U.S. Courts — Constitution Day & broader courtroom simulations. 
  • Montana 250 Educational Resources – Curriculum, civics resources, Montana history, and classroom materials supporting the Semi quincentennial. Montana 250 Educational Resources  
  • National Constitution Center – Interactive civics lessons, Constitution Day materials, and primary source resources.  
  • National Archives – America's Founding Documents – The Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and classroom activities.  
  • Library of Congress – Teaching with Primary Sources – Ready-to-use primary source lessons.  
  • Bill of Rights Institute – Standards-aligned civics lessons and constitutional resources.  
  • iCivics – Interactive games and lessons on government and citizenship.  
  • Montana Historical Society – Montana history, primary sources, and civics materials.  
  • Freedom 250 Teacher Toolkit – Classroom ideas, "Freedom Minute" concepts, student projects, and schoolwide celebration resources developed for America's 250th anniversary.  

  • Indian Education for All (IEFA) hub: “Essential Understandings Regarding Montana Indians,” classroom units (including Montana Constitution Article X & IEFA), and ideas for American Indian Heritage Day.  
  • Tip: If you want to extend Freedom Week into a full civics unit, IEFA has Social Studies lessons that map constitutional content to IEFA lessons by grade band. 

Celebrate Lincoln's Birthday (February 12)

Lincoln's Birthday is a wonderful opportunity for schools to honor the life and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln, one of our nation's most influential leaders. Teachers can engage students through lessons about Lincoln's leadership, the Civil War, and the importance of unity, freedom, and equality. Schools might celebrate by reading historical speeches, hosting classroom discussions, creating patriotic art projects, or exploring how Lincoln's values continue to shape our country today. By taking time to recognize Lincoln's Birthday, students gain a deeper appreciation for American history and the responsibilities of citizenship. 

  • National Park Service – Abraham Lincoln National Historic Sites 
    Find virtual tours, educational activities, historical information, and resources about Lincoln's life and legacy.  
  • National Archives – DocsTeach 
    Search for document-based lessons featuring the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address, and other Lincoln-era primary sources that encourage historical inquiry.  
  • Smithsonian Learning Lab 
    Access free collections, videos, and classroom activities focused on Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War, and American history.  
  • PBS LearningMedia 
    Free videos, interactive lessons, and teaching resources on Abraham Lincoln for elementary through high school students.  

  • Reading and discussing the Gettysburg Address or selected speeches.  
  • Hosting a classroom "Living History" presentation where students portray Abraham Lincoln or other historical figures.  
  • Creating timeline projects about Lincoln's life and presidency.  
  • Discussing leadership, citizenship, and the importance of equality and unity in American history. 
Picture of Lincoln Monument
Monumental statue of George Washington outside the Indiana Statehouse, Indianapolis

Celebrate Washington's Birthday (February 22)

Washington's Birthday provides an opportunity for schools to recognize the life and leadership of George Washington, the first President of the United States and a founding father of our nation. Educators can engage students by exploring Washington's role in the American Revolution, the founding of the United States, and the responsibilities of civic leadership. Schools may celebrate through lessons using primary sources, classroom discussions, patriotic art projects, or activities that highlight the values of service, integrity, and citizenship. Observing Washington's Birthday helps students better understand the nation's history and the enduring principles of American democracy. 

  • Mount Vernon – Teacher Resources 
    George Washington's estate offers free lesson plans, virtual tours, primary sources, videos, and interactive activities for K–12 classrooms.  
  • National Archives – DocsTeach 
    Search for document-based learning activities featuring George Washington, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.  
  • Smithsonian Learning Lab 
    Free digital collections, videos, and classroom activities related to George Washington and early American history.  

  • Reading excerpts from George Washington's Farewell Address and discussing its relevance today.  
  • Exploring primary source letters and historical documents.  
  • Creating timelines of Washington's life and the founding of the United States.  
  • Holding a "Founding Fathers" classroom presentation or living history activity.  
  • Discussing leadership, civic responsibility, and the importance of public service.  
  • Completing map activities highlighting key locations from the Revolutionary War and Washington's presidency. 

Celebrate Arbor Day (last Friday in April)

Arbor Day is a wonderful opportunity for schools to inspire environmental stewardship and celebrate the important role trees play in our communities. Students can learn about the benefits of trees, including improving air quality, providing wildlife habitat, conserving water, and beautifying neighborhoods. Schools may celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees, participating in campus beautification projects, exploring local ecosystems, or incorporating hands-on science and conservation activities into the classroom. Recognizing Arbor Day encourages students to become responsible environmental stewards and make a lasting, positive impact on their communities. 

  • Project Learning Tree
    Standards-aligned environmental education lessons, outdoor activities, and professional development opportunities for educators.  

  • Planting a tree on campus or in the community.  
  • Organizing a school or neighborhood cleanup event.  
  • Learning to identify native Montana trees and their ecological importance.  
  • Creating tree journals, leaf rubbings, or nature-inspired artwork.  
  • Measuring and observing trees as part of science or math lessons.  
  • Inviting a local forester, arborist, or conservation professional to speak with students.  
  • Starting a school garden or pollinator habitat project.  
  • Encouraging students to take home and plant a tree or shrub with their families. 
American flag waving in a vibrant park setting at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Vibrant display of American flags waving in a field under a clear blue sky

Celebrate Flag Day (June 14)

Flag Day is an opportunity for schools to honor the American flag as a symbol of the nation's history, values, and freedoms. Observed annually on June 14, Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the United States flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777. Schools can celebrate by teaching students about the history and symbolism of the flag, proper flag etiquette, and the principles of patriotism, civic responsibility, and national unity. Through classroom discussions, ceremonies, and educational activities, students gain a greater appreciation for the ideals the flag represents and the responsibilities of citizenship. 

  • National Flag Foundation
    Educational materials about the history, meaning, and proper display of the American flag.  

  • Holding a school flag-raising ceremony or reciting the Pledge of Allegiance together.  
  • Teaching students about the history and symbolism of the American flag.  
  • Learning and practicing proper flag etiquette, including respectful display and folding of the flag.  
  • Reading the history behind the Star-Spangled Banner and discussing its significance.  
  • Creating patriotic art projects inspired by the American flag.  
  • Inviting local veterans or members of civic organizations to share the importance of the flag and military service.  
  • Exploring primary source documents and historical photographs related to the flag's history. 

Celebrate Constitution Day & Citizenship Day (September 17)

Observed annually on September 17, Constitution Day and Citizenship Day commemorate the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787 and celebrate the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship. This observance provides schools with an excellent opportunity to engage students in learning about the Constitution, the foundations of American government, and the importance of active civic participation. 

Schools can celebrate by exploring the Constitution and Bill of Rights through primary source documents, participating in classroom discussions or mock government activities, and highlighting the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship. Through meaningful civic learning experiences, students gain a deeper appreciation for the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the role each citizen plays in strengthening their communities and the nation. 

  • National Constitution Center 
    Free lesson plans, videos, interactive activities, primary sources, and live educational programs centered on the U.S. Constitution and civic education.  
  • iCivics 
    Free standards-aligned games, lesson plans, webquests, and interactive activities that teach students about government, constitutional principles, and citizenship.  
  • Center for Civic Education
    Curriculum resources, lesson plans, and professional development focused on constitutional democracy and civic education.  
  • Civics Renewal Network 
    A searchable collection of high-quality civics resources from leading educational organizations, organized by grade level and topic.  
  • Bill of Rights Institute  
    Free lessons, primary sources, videos, and student activities exploring the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the principles of liberty and self-government.  

  • Reading and discussing the Preamble to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.  
  • Holding a mock election, courtroom simulation, or congressional debate.  
  • Creating a classroom constitution that outlines shared expectations and responsibilities.  
  • Inviting local judges, attorneys, elected officials, veterans, or civic leaders to speak with students.  
  • Exploring primary source documents from the Constitutional Convention.  
  • Participating in service-learning projects that demonstrate responsible citizenship.  
  • Hosting a constitution trivia contest or civic engagement fair.  
  • Encouraging students to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and how they can make a positive difference in their communities. 
Close-up of a 'We the People' scroll on an American flag cloth background

Celebrate Freedom Week (Last week in September)

Freedom Week provides schools with an opportunity to deepen students' understanding of the founding principles of the United States and the documents that have shaped our nation's history. Through the study of the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and other foundational texts, students can explore the ideals of liberty, self-government, individual rights, and civic responsibility. 

During Freedom Week, schools are encouraged to engage students in meaningful discussions about the principles of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law through primary source analysis, civic learning, and historical inquiry. By examining these foundational documents and their lasting influence, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to become informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. 

  • National Constitution Center 
    Free lesson plans, interactive activities, videos, and live learning experiences focused on the Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and civic education.  
  • Bill of Rights Institute 
    Free standards-aligned lessons, primary sources, videos, and student activities focused on constitutional principles, civic virtues, and American history.  
  • iCivics 
    Interactive games, lesson plans, web quests, and classroom resources that teach students about government, citizenship, and civic engagement.  
  • Center for Civic Education 
    Curriculum materials, lesson plans, and professional learning focused on constitutional democracy and responsible citizenship.  

Schools can celebrate Freedom Week by: 

  • Reading and discussing the Declaration of Independence, United States Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other founding documents.  
  • Analyzing primary sources to understand the historical context and enduring principles of American democracy.  
  • Hosting classroom debates or Socratic seminars on constitutional issues and civic responsibilities.  
  • Holding mock congressional hearings, legislative sessions, or Supreme Court cases.  
  • Inviting local judges, attorneys, elected officials, veterans, or civic leaders to speak about the importance of civic engagement.  
  • Encouraging students to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship through writing, art, or service-learning projects.  
  • Connecting lessons to Montana's history and the role citizens play in strengthening their local communities and state. 
Inscription from the Declaration of Independence at the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, DC
Native American dancers in colorful traditional attire at a vibrant pow wow gathering.

Celebrate American Indian Heritage Day (fourth Friday in September)

American Indian Heritage Day is an opportunity for schools to honor the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and enduring contributions of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples. Observed on the day after Thanksgiving, this day encourages students to learn about the diverse Tribal Nations that have shaped our nation's history and continue to enrich our communities today. 

In Montana, American Indian Heritage Day provides an excellent opportunity to incorporate Indian Education for All (IEFA) by exploring the histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary experiences of the state's Tribal Nations. Schools can celebrate through culturally responsive lessons, guest speakers, literature, art, music, and community partnerships that promote respect, understanding, and meaningful learning. By recognizing American Indian Heritage Day, students gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity, resilience, and lasting contributions of Indigenous peoples while fostering mutual respect and cultural awareness. 

  • Learning about the history, cultures, and contemporary contributions of Montana's Tribal Nations through Indian Education for All (IEFA) resources.  
  • Reading books by Indigenous authors and discussing Native perspectives and experiences.  
  • Inviting Tribal Elders, cultural leaders, artists, historians, or community members to share their knowledge and experiences.  
  • Exploring Indigenous art, music, storytelling, languages, and traditional ecological knowledge.  
  • Visiting local museums, cultural centers, or Tribal historic sites when possible.  
  • Examining primary sources and discussing the diversity of Tribal Nations across the United States.  
  • Encouraging students to reflect on the importance of respecting Indigenous cultures, histories, and ongoing contributions to society. 

  • FUN-ology! Seasons Make the World Go Round: A 3-part Earth & Space Science series where students analyze local weather, connect environmental shifts to Indigenous seasonal rounds, and observe seasonal patterns.  

  • What Is Food Sovereignty?  Introduces middle schoolers to sustainable food systems, native foodways, traditional agriculture, and community self-determination.  

Shield-Bearing Warriors at Bear Gulch & Crow Perspectives: High school students examine ancient petroglyphs and pictographs at Bear Gulch and Atherton Canyon alongside Apsáalooke insights to analyze sacred symbolism and warrior culture. 

Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day (October 12)

Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day and both observed on the second Monday in October. Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage to the Americas and provides an opportunity for students to explore a pivotal moment in world history. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity to explore our state and nation’s history from an indigenous perspective. Schools can use this observance to examine the Age of Exploration, the exchange of ideas, goods, and cultures, and the lasting impacts of European exploration on Indigenous peoples and the development of the Americas.

Through the use of primary sources, historical inquiry, and respectful classroom discussions, educators can help students examine multiple perspectives, think critically about historical events, and better understand their significance and lasting influence on history.

  • National Archives – DocsTeach 
    Inquiry-based activities using primary source documents to examine exploration, colonization, and historical perspectives.  
  • Smithsonian Learning Lab 
    Digital collections, videos, and classroom activities exploring exploration, geography, and early encounters between cultures.  
  • National Geographic Education 
    Lessons, maps, articles, and multimedia resources about the Age of Exploration, navigation, and global connections.  
  • PBS LearningMedia 
    Standards-aligned videos and lesson plans examining exploration, Indigenous cultures, and the historical impacts of European contact.   

  • Exploring the Age of Exploration and its impact on world history.  
  • Analyzing primary source maps, journals, and historical documents.  
  • Comparing different historical perspectives on Columbus's voyages and their consequences.  
  • Discussing how historical events can be interpreted through multiple viewpoints.  
  • Creating timelines of major exploration events and their global impacts.
Bronze statue of Christopher Columbus in a garden in Funchal, Madeira
A classic covered wagon sits in a scenic field under a dramatic sunset

Celebrate Pioneer Day (November 1)

Pioneer Day provides an opportunity for schools to explore the history of the settlers who helped shape Montana and the American West. Students can learn about the challenges, innovations, and daily lives of pioneers while examining the economic, cultural, and geographic factors that influenced westward expansion. 

As students study this period in history, they should also explore the perspectives and experiences of American Indian tribes whose homelands were profoundly impacted by westward migration. By examining multiple perspectives through primary sources and historical inquiry, schools can foster a deeper understanding of Montana's history and the diverse people who have contributed to its story. 

  • Smithsonian Learning Lab 
    Digital collections, primary sources, and classroom activities focused on pioneers, westward expansion, and life on the frontier.

  • Exploring Montana's pioneer history through primary sources, photographs, diaries, and maps.  
  • Comparing daily life in pioneer communities with life in Montana today.  
  • Creating timelines of important events in Montana's territorial and state history.  
  • Participating in hands-on activities such as butter churning demonstrations, simple pioneer crafts, quilting patterns, or one-room schoolhouse lessons.  
Montana capital building covered in snow

Celebrate Montana's 250th Commission

Established through House Bill 377, the Montana 250th Commission was created to coordinate statewide efforts commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As Montana joins the nation in recognizing America's Semi quincentennial, schools have a unique opportunity to engage students in learning about the nation's founding, Montana's history, civic responsibility, and the diverse people and cultures that have shaped our state and country. 

 

The Commission encourages schools to promote civic engagement by exploring the principles of democracy, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the evolution of American government. Students are also encouraged to learn about Montana's rich history, including the histories and contributions of Tribal Nations through Indian Education for All (IEFA). Through primary source analysis, historical inquiry, service-learning, and community partnerships, schools can help students better understand the past while inspiring informed and engaged citizenship for the future. 

  • Montana 250 Commission 
    Learn about Montana's Semi quincentennial initiatives, statewide events, educational opportunities, and ways schools can participate.  
  • iCivics 
    Free, standards-aligned games, lesson plans, and activities that teach students about government, civic participation, and democracy.  
  • Bill of Rights Institute 
    Primary sources, lesson plans, videos, and classroom resources exploring America's founding principles and civic virtues. 

Schools can celebrate Montana's 250th Commission by: 

  • Exploring the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and other founding documents through primary source analysis.  
  • Studying Montana's history alongside the history and sovereignty of Montana's Tribal Nations using IEFA resources.  
  • Hosting student-led civic engagement projects or community service activities.  
  • Creating timelines highlighting important events in United States and Montana history.  
  • Inviting local historians, Tribal leaders, veterans, elected officials, or civic leaders to share their perspectives.  
  • Organizing essay, art, photography, or history contests centered on "What America and Montana Mean to Me."  
  • Visiting local museums, historical sites, or state parks to connect classroom learning with Montana's heritage.  
  • Encouraging students to reflect on how they can contribute to their communities as informed and engaged citizens. 

Contact Information

Katie Bloodgood, Deputy Chief of Staff & Policy Director: katie.bloodgood@mt.gov