The Smithsonian Institution is inviting educators to apply for the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange (DiDVE) Spring 2027 Cohort, an innovative professional development and civic learning opportunity designed to connect students and educators across communities in the United States.

The program, themed “Innovation: A Journey of Civic Imagination,” explores the relationship between innovation, community stories, civic participation, and democracy. Through a combination of virtual exchange, local inquiry, Smithsonian collections, object-based learning, design thinking, and civic discourse, participating educators will guide young people in examining how innovation has shaped communities and contributed to the ongoing democratic story.

Selected facilitators will receive extensive professional support, participate in a three-day training with Smithsonian education leaders in Washington, D.C. with travel and accommodation covered, collaborate with educators from other parts of the country, and receive a $1,500 honorarium upon successful completion of the program.

The application period for the Spring 2027 Cohort opens on August 31, 2026, and closes on October 5, 2026.

About the Smithsonian Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange

Democracy is not simply shaped through national institutions and major political events. It is also influenced by the everyday actions, ideas, traditions, innovations, and collaborations that take place within communities.

The Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange program encourages educators and students to explore these connections by asking important questions about their communities and the role that innovation plays in shaping civic life.

The central theme for the 2026–2027 program is:

Innovation: A Journey of Civic Imagination

Every community contains stories of people who recognized opportunities, responded creatively to challenges, developed new ideas, and imagined better possibilities for the future.

These stories may involve:

• Technological advancements;
• Cultural developments;
• Community-led initiatives;
• Local traditions;
• Creative problem-solving;
• Social movements;
• New ways of organizing communities;
• Everyday inventions and innovations;
• Historical turning points;
• Ideas that transformed the lives of individuals and communities.

The program encourages students to understand that innovation is closely connected to democracy. When people identify challenges, exchange ideas, collaborate with others, and work toward solutions, they are practicing important civic habits.

Through this process, students can develop a stronger understanding of how communities evolve and how individuals can contribute to shaping the future.

The Guiding Question of the Program

The Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange is built around an important civic inquiry:

In what ways has innovation, large or small, shaped our communities? And how does it help us understand our role in the ongoing American democratic story?

This question provides a framework for educators and students to investigate their communities and explore how historical and contemporary innovations influence people’s lives.

Students will be encouraged to move beyond simply memorizing historical information. Instead, they will engage in active inquiry by examining evidence, considering different perspectives, asking questions, and connecting local experiences with broader national conversations.

What Is the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Program?

The Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange is an educational initiative that brings students from different communities together to learn, collaborate, and exchange perspectives.

The program combines local learning with national dialogue.

Students use:

• Local knowledge;
• Community stories;
• Smithsonian collections;
• Historical objects;
• Cultural resources;
• Evidence-based inquiry;
• Place-based learning;
• Design thinking;
• Civic discussion;
• Collaborative projects.

Through these approaches, participants investigate how innovation has influenced communities and how citizens can participate in shaping society.

One of the distinctive features of the program is that students do not learn in isolation. They connect with peers from other communities, allowing them to compare experiences, exchange perspectives, and discover similarities and differences in how people understand innovation and civic life.

How the Virtual Exchange Works

The program connects educators and students from different locations across the United States.

Participating facilitators partner with another educator from a different area of the country to design and lead a collaborative exchange.

The experience includes both:

1. Asynchronous Learning

Students participate in activities and discussions that do not necessarily require everyone to be online at the same time.

This may allow participants to:

• Conduct local research;
• Examine Smithsonian resources;
• Explore community stories;
• Complete individual or group assignments;
• Share reflections;
• Upload findings;
• Respond to ideas from students in other communities.

2. Synchronous Learning

Students and facilitators also participate in real-time interactions.

These experiences can help participants:

• Engage directly with peers;
• Discuss different perspectives;
• Present discoveries;
• Ask questions;
• Collaborate on ideas;
• Build relationships across communities;
• Practice respectful civic dialogue.

By combining both approaches, the program creates a flexible and interactive learning environment that supports meaningful collaboration.

Exploring Innovation Through Civic Imagination

The concept of civic imagination is central to the Democracy in Dialogue program.

Civic imagination encourages individuals to think about the future of their communities and consider how collective action, creativity, and innovation can address challenges.

Participants explore questions such as:

• How have people in our community responded to challenges?
• What innovations have transformed the way people live?
• Who are the individuals behind important local developments?
• How do traditions influence innovation?
• What can historical innovations teach us today?
• How can communities work together to solve current challenges?
• What role can young people play in shaping the future?
• How does understanding different perspectives strengthen democracy?

These questions help students see themselves not simply as observers of society, but as individuals who can participate in civic life.

Using Smithsonian Resources for Learning

The Smithsonian Institution provides participants with access to a vast range of educational resources and collections.

Through the program, educators and students explore objects, stories, cultural materials, and historical resources to deepen their understanding of innovation and democracy.

Participants examine how:

• Technological developments emerge;
• Cultural changes take place;
• Communities adapt to new circumstances;
• Historical experiences influence the present;
• Everyday ideas can create lasting change;
• Objects and places contain important stories;
• Local experiences connect with broader historical narratives.

The use of Smithsonian resources gives students an opportunity to engage with authentic materials while connecting historical knowledge to contemporary civic questions.

Benefits of the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange 2027

Selected facilitators will receive significant professional and educational benefits through their participation.

1. $1,500 Honorarium

Facilitators who successfully complete the program will receive a $1,500 honorarium.

This recognizes the time, expertise, leadership, and commitment required to guide students through the virtual exchange experience.

2. Fully Supported Three-Day Training

Selected facilitators will attend a three-day training led by Smithsonian education leaders.

The training provides an opportunity to prepare for the program while gaining valuable knowledge and skills related to:

• Virtual exchange;
• Civic education;
• Inquiry-based learning;
• Dialogue facilitation;
• Collaborative learning;
• Community engagement;
• Object-based learning;
• Place-based inquiry;
• Student-centered education.

3. Travel and Accommodation Covered

Participants attending the D.C. Learning Summit will have their travel and accommodation expenses covered.

This significantly reduces the financial barriers associated with participating in the in-person professional development component of the program.

The Learning Summit is scheduled to take place from:

January 11–13, 2027

in Washington, D.C.

4. Professional Development Opportunities

The program provides educators with an opportunity to strengthen their professional practice.

Participants can gain experience in areas such as:

• Facilitating virtual learning;
• Designing collaborative educational experiences;
• Civic discourse;
• Student engagement;
• Cross-community learning;
• Project-based learning;
• Design thinking;
• Evidence-based inquiry;
• Community-centered education.

These skills can also be valuable beyond the duration of the Democracy in Dialogue program.

5. Collaboration With Educators From Other Communities

Participants will partner with another facilitator from a different area of the country.

This provides an opportunity to:

• Exchange teaching practices;
• Develop collaborative learning activities;
• Explore different community perspectives;
• Build professional relationships;
• Learn from educators with different experiences;
• Create meaningful cross-community educational experiences.

6. National Student Connections

Students participating in the program will have the opportunity to connect with peers from other communities.

This can help young people:

• Develop communication skills;
• Understand diverse perspectives;
• Build friendships;
• Explore different communities;
• Practice collaboration;
• Strengthen empathy;
• Develop civic awareness.

7. Ongoing Professional Support

Facilitators are not expected to manage the program independently.

Program Co-Leads provide support throughout the semester to help ensure that facilitators can successfully implement the exchange.

Participants will also attend regular virtual meetings with other facilitators.

These meetings provide opportunities for:

• Peer learning;
• Troubleshooting;
• Sharing experiences;
• Professional reflection;
• Collaborative problem-solving;
• Ongoing program support.

2026–2027 Democracy in Dialogue Schedule

The Democracy in Dialogue program is organized around semester-based cohorts.

Current Cohort: Fall 2026

Program Period: September–December 2026

Upcoming Cohort: Spring 2027

Program Period: January–May 2027

Important Dates

Activity	Date
Application Opens	August 31, 2026
Application Deadline	October 5, 2026
D.C. Learning Summit	January 11–13, 2027
Spring 2027 Program	January–May 2027

Applicants interested in joining the Spring 2027 cohort should ensure that they are available for the required program activities throughout the semester.

Who Should Apply for the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange?

The program is open to educators from all disciplines.

Applicants do not need to specialize exclusively in history, civics, or social studies.

Educators from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds may be able to integrate the program’s themes into their teaching and learning environments.

Potential applicants may include professionals working in areas such as:

• Social studies;
• History;
• Civics;
• Science;
• Technology;
• Arts;
• Humanities;
• Language and literature;
• Cultural education;
• Community education;
• Informal learning;
• Youth development;
• Interdisciplinary education.

The key requirement is that applicants work with young people aged 10 to 19 years old and have the capacity to facilitate the program.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should meet the following general requirements:

1. Be an Educator

The opportunity is intended for individual educators working in educational environments.

Applicants may work in:

• Schools;
• Community organizations;
• Youth programs;
• Informal education settings;
• Other educational environments.

2. Work With Students Aged 10–19

Applicants must work with young people within the program’s target age range.

The Democracy in Dialogue program is specifically designed for students aged:

10 to 19 years old

3. Be Available Throughout the Semester

The program is implemented over the course of a semester.

Applicants should therefore be prepared to commit time to:

• Facilitator training;
• Student recruitment;
• Program planning;
• Virtual exchange activities;
• In-person student meetings;
• Community engagement;
• Facilitator meetings;
• Final student projects.

4. Recruit at Least 15 Students

Each selected facilitator must recruit a minimum of:

15 students

to participate in the virtual exchange activities.

Applicants should therefore consider their ability to recruit, organize, and consistently engage a group of young participants.

5. Be Willing to Collaborate With Another Facilitator

Participants will partner with another facilitator from a different part of the country.

The partnership involves collaboratively designing and leading a virtual exchange experience.

Successful applicants should therefore be comfortable with:

• Professional collaboration;
• Shared planning;
• Communication;
• Flexibility;
• Cross-community engagement.

6. Support Student Projects

Facilitators are responsible for ensuring that students successfully complete their final projects.

This requires active mentorship and support throughout the program.

Responsibilities of a Democracy in Dialogue Facilitator

Selected applicants will take on several responsibilities during the program.

Attend the Three-Day Training

Facilitators must participate in training led by Smithsonian education leaders.

The training will help prepare participants for the implementation of the program.

Travel and accommodation are provided for the training component.

Recruit a Minimum of 15 Students

Each facilitator must organize a group of at least 15 students.

These students will participate in the exchange activities throughout the semester.

Partner With Another Facilitator

Participants will work with an educator from another geographical area.

Together, they will design and facilitate learning experiences that connect their respective student groups.

Facilitate Virtual Exchange Activities

The program includes both asynchronous and synchronous learning experiences.

Facilitators will guide students through these activities and support productive engagement.

Organize Regular In-Person Meetings

Each facilitator is responsible for organizing regular meetings with their students.

These meetings may provide opportunities for students to:

• Discuss ideas;
• Conduct research;
• Reflect on learning;
• Prepare projects;
• Connect local experiences to broader themes.

Build Community Connections

The program encourages participants to connect learning with the communities around them.

Facilitators may help students explore:

• Local history;
• Community stories;
• Cultural traditions;
• Innovation;
• Civic institutions;
• Local challenges;
• Community leaders.

Support Final Student Projects

Students are expected to complete final projects as part of the program.

Facilitators will guide students throughout the process and help ensure successful completion.

Participate in Regular Facilitator Meetings

Selected participants will attend virtual meetings with other facilitators.

These meetings provide continuing professional support and opportunities for collaboration.

How to Apply for the Smithsonian Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange 2027

Applicants must submit their application materials in one PDF document.

The materials must be arranged in the required order.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

1. Letter of Interest

The Letter of Interest should be between:

1 and 2 pages maximum

The letter should address the following areas.

Introduce Yourself

Applicants should provide an introduction that helps the selection team understand their professional background and educational role.

Describe Your Educational Philosophy

Applicants should explain their approach to education and learning.

This may include their perspectives on:

• Student engagement;
• Collaborative learning;
• Inquiry;
• Community education;
• Civic learning;
• Inclusive learning environments.

Explain Your Professional Development Goals

Applicants should describe the skills, knowledge, or experiences they hope to gain through participation in the program.

They should also explain how these goals align with Democracy in Dialogue.

Reflect on Your Community

Applicants are encouraged to discuss their community and the characteristics that define it.

The application should consider questions such as:

• What qualities make your community unique?
• What stories are important to your community?
• What is the community’s capacity for engagement?
• How have innovation and change shaped the area?

Explain the Potential Impact of the Program

Applicants should explain how Democracy in Dialogue could benefit:

• Their school or organization;
• Their students;
• Their broader community.

They should also consider how they might involve:

• Other educators;
• Community stakeholders;
• Local organizations;
• Additional partners.

2. Current CV or Resume

Applicants must also submit a current curriculum vitae or resume.

The document should not exceed:

Five pages maximum

Applicants should ensure that their CV or resume clearly presents relevant experience, including educational, professional, community engagement, youth development, or facilitation experience.

Required PDF File Name Format

All application materials must be combined into one PDF file.

Applicants should follow the required naming format:

<LAST NAME, First Initial, Cohort 7 APPLICANT>

Following the requested file format can help ensure that application materials are properly organized and identified during the review process.

Where to Send the Application

Completed application documents should be submitted via email.

Applicants should send their PDF file to: OUSE-Rural-Initiatives@si.edu

It is advisable to carefully review the application before submission and ensure that:

• The Letter of Interest is included;
• The Letter of Interest does not exceed two pages;
• The CV or resume does not exceed five pages;
• All documents are combined into one PDF;
• Documents are arranged in the required order;
• The file name follows the specified format;
• The application is submitted before the deadline.

Application Deadline

The application period for the Democracy in Dialogue Spring 2027 Cohort runs from:

August 31, 2026, to October 5, 2026.

Deadline: October 5, 2026

Interested educators should avoid waiting until the final day to submit their applications.

Preparing a thoughtful Letter of Interest may require time for applicants to reflect on their educational philosophy, professional development goals, community context, and plans for using the program to benefit students and stakeholders.

Why Educators Should Consider Applying

The Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange offers more than traditional professional development.

It gives educators an opportunity to participate in a national learning community while helping students engage with meaningful questions about innovation, community, civic participation, and democracy.

The program may be particularly valuable for educators interested in:

• Civic education;
• Student voice;
• Community engagement;
• Collaborative learning;
• Virtual exchange;
• Interdisciplinary teaching;
• Inquiry-based education;
• Project-based learning;
• Cultural understanding;
• Professional networking.

Participants also have the opportunity to develop learning experiences that connect local stories with national conversations.

This approach can help students recognize that their communities contain important histories, knowledge, and ideas that deserve exploration and discussion.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

Applicants can improve the quality of their application by carefully connecting their experience and goals to the objectives of Democracy in Dialogue.

1. Demonstrate Your Connection to Education

Clearly explain your experience working with young people and describe the educational setting in which you work.

Show that you understand the needs and interests of students aged 10–19.

2. Connect Your Philosophy to Civic Learning

Discuss how your approach to education supports:

• Critical thinking;
• Dialogue;
• Collaboration;
• Inquiry;
• Multiple perspectives;
• Student participation.

3. Highlight Your Community

The program places significant emphasis on community stories.

Applicants should reflect carefully on what makes their community unique.

Consider identifying:

• Important historical stories;
• Local innovations;
• Community challenges;
• Cultural traditions;
• Civic initiatives;
• People who have contributed to change.

4. Show How You Will Engage Students

Demonstrate that you have a realistic plan for recruiting and supporting at least 15 students.

Applicants should show their ability to create an engaging and supportive learning environment.

5. Think Beyond the Classroom

Consider how the program could benefit the wider community.

Strong applications may explain how the program could involve:

• Families;
• Community leaders;
• Local organizations;
• Cultural institutions;
• Other educators;
• Civic stakeholders.

6. Follow Every Application Instruction

Before submitting, carefully check all formatting requirements.

Small details such as page limits, document order, PDF formatting, and file naming should not be overlooked.

To apply send PDF file to: OUSE-Rural-Initiatives@si.edu

About the Organizations Supporting Democracy in Dialogue

The Democracy in Dialogue initiative is supported through the resources and educational expertise of the Smithsonian Institution.

The program is also made possible through generous support from organizations including:

• Bezos Family Foundation;
• Andrew Carnegie Foundation.

The support behind the program enables educators and students to participate in meaningful learning experiences that combine historical inquiry, innovation, civic discourse, and community engagement.

Visit HERE to learn more about the Smithsonian Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange 2027.

Conclusion

The Smithsonian Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Spring 2027 Cohort presents a valuable opportunity for educators who want to expand their professional practice while creating meaningful learning experiences for young people.

By exploring the theme “Innovation: A Journey of Civic Imagination,” participants will help students investigate how communities respond to challenges, develop new ideas, and shape their futures. The program combines Smithsonian educational resources, local inquiry, virtual exchange, collaborative learning, civic dialogue, and community engagement to create a unique educational experience.

Selected facilitators will benefit from professional training, ongoing support, collaboration with educators from other communities, a fully supported Learning Summit in Washington, D.C., and a $1,500 honorarium upon successful completion of the program.

For educators working with students aged 10–19 who are passionate about civic learning, innovation, community stories, and collaborative education, Democracy in Dialogue offers an opportunity to connect classrooms and communities while helping young people develop the skills needed to participate thoughtfully in civic life.

With the application deadline set for October 5, 2026, eligible educators interested in joining the Spring 2027 cohort should begin preparing their Letter of Interest and CV or resume early and ensure that all materials meet the Smithsonian’s submission requirements.

For more global Fellowship opportunity visit OFY HERE