Acushnet Civics Teacher Karen Bentley Wins State Award

It's always nice when we are able to report some good news here at Fun 107. We call it "Here's the Good Part."  We always love highlighting the great work from SouthCoast teachers with our Teacher of the Month program.

Today, however, it's even better. We're happy to report that an eighth-grade civics teacher at Acushnet's Ford Middle School is being recognized by the state for her work making civics come to life for her students.  .

Karen Bentley has been selected to receive the Don Salvucci Award for Excellence in Promoting Civic Education from the Massachusetts Council for the Social Studies (MCSS).

What is the Don Salvucci Award

The Don Salvucci Award recognizes educators who elevate civic learning by teaching democratic values, civic responsibility, and informed participation in public life through engaging classroom experiences. The award is named for Don Salvucci, a former MCSS president and longtime advocate for innovative civic learning.

MCSS said Bentley was chosen from a highly competitive field of nominees across Massachusetts, describing her as “a truly remarkable educator” who puts her students first. Bentley is in her third year teaching in Acushnet and focuses her classroom on inquiry and essential civic skills, including asking strong questions, analyzing information, evaluating perspectives and making informed decisions.

Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Angela Ruggeri wrote a nomination letter to MCSS praising Bentley’s talent for connecting with students. Bentley has helped transform civics “from a required subject into a powerful, meaningful and authentic exploration” of democratic ideals, responsibilities and action."

How Bentley Makes Civics Hands On

In Bentley’s classroom, students don't just study out of dusty, old books. They roll up their sleeves and take on foundational documents like the Constitution and Bill of Rights, and explore how they apply to modern day civic issues. Students also keep laminated civic value cards at their desks highlighting concepts such as equality, liberty, inclusiveness, fairness and freedom.

Civic Action Projects with Real World Impact

Bentley’s students have taken on civic action projects addressing issues including mental health awareness, food insecurity, public safety and intolerance, with several showcased at regional and state events. Her work includes partnerships with the Democratic Knowledge Project and the One8 Foundation and collaborations with local businesses, including a ranked-choice voting lesson with Acushnet Creamery that let students vote on a new ice cream flavor name.

Bentley will be honored March 13 at the MCSS Awards Ceremony at Old Sturbridge Village following the organization’s Spring Conference.