Acushnet teacher honored for Civic Education

Press Release

Karen Bentley, an eighth grade civics teacher at Albert F. Ford Middle School in Acushnet, has been selected to receive the Don Salvucci Award for Excellence in Promoting Civic Educa­tion from the Massachusetts Council for the Social Studies (MCSS). 

The award recognizes classroom teachers who emphasize and teach the importance of democratic ideals and responsibilities. It is named in honor of Don Salvucci, a former MCSS president and longtime advocate for innovative and engaging civic education.

Bentley was chosen from a highly competitive field of nominees from across the state. In notifying district leaders of the selection, MCSS des­cribed Bentley as “a truly remarkable educator’ who stood out for her talents and contributions to students. 

Bentley, who is in her third year teaching in Acushnet, is committed to cultivating inquiry and essential civic skills. Her classroom centers on students’ ability to ask questions, analyze information, evaluate perspectives and make informed decisions. 

“Ms. Bentley has significantly elevated the civic learning experience for students, transforming civics from a required subject into a powerful, meaningful and authentic exploration of democratic ideals, responsibilities and action,” Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Assess­ment Angela Ruggeri wrote in a letter nominating Bentley for the award. “In the spirit of Don Salvucci’s legacy, his passion for civic educa­tion, inquiry, innovation, and student engagement, Ms. Bentley exemplifies excellence across multiple award criteria, particularly in fostering inquiry, developing democratic values, professional involvement, and student participation in civic activities beyond the classroom.” 

In her classroom, students regularly engage with foundational documents such as the Constitu­tion and Bill of Rights, explore current civic issues and partici­pate in project-based learning tied to their community. 

Each student is provided with laminated civic value cards kept at their desk for daily reference, high­lighting values such as equality, liberty, inclusiveness, fairness, courage, truth, diversity, patriotism and freedom. 

Bentley also leads students in civic action projects that address real-world issues, including mental health awareness, food insecurity, public safety, intolerance and community engagement. Many of these projects have been show­cased at regional and state-level civic events, an uncommon achieve­ment at the middle school level. 

Her work extends beyond the class­room through partnerships with organizations such as the Democratic Knowledge Project and the One8 Foundation, as well as collaborations with local businesses and institu­tions. One notable project involved working with Acushnet Creamery to teach students about ranked-choice voting by allowing students to vote on the name of a new ice cream flavor. 

“Karen Bentley has created a classroom where students learn to think critically and take responsibility for their role in the community,” said Principal Michelle Silvia. “She brings civic learning to life in ways that are meaningful and lasting, and this recognition is truly well-deserved.” 

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

District leaders praised Bentley for her dedication to preparing students for thoughtful, informed participation in civic life. 

“Karen Bentley represents the very best of what civic education should be,” said Superintendent Dr. Paula Bailey. “Because of her work in the class­room, students are prepared beyond high school for thoughtful participation in their communities for years to come. We are proud to see her recognized at the state level for this important work.” 

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