Class Calendar Length
Year Long
Grade Levels
10, 11, 12
Course Summary
This college-level course offers a deep dive into the foundations, institutions, and evolving processes of the American political system. Through high-stakes simulations and project-based learning, students will analyze landmark Supreme Court cases, debate contemporary political events, and master the art of argumentative writing. By examining the legislative, executive, and judicial branches alongside the role of political parties and the media, participants develop the critical thinking skills necessary for active, informed citizenship in a 21st-century democracy.
Key Outcomes
- Analyze the Constitutional foundations and the evolution of federalism.
- Evaluate the impact of Supreme Court precedents on civil rights and liberties.
- Execute a comprehensive analysis of modern public policy formation.
Mass. State Standards
- HSS.Gov.T1: Foundations of Government (Constitution and founding principles)
- HSS.Gov.T2: Institutions of Government (Legislative, executive, and judicial branches)
- HSS.Gov.T3: Civil Rights and Liberties (Constitutional protections and Court cases)
- HSS.Gov.T4: Political Processes (Parties, elections, interest groups, and media)
- HSS.Gov.T5: Public Policy (Formation, implementation, and evaluation)
About the Instructor
Dr. Bruce Pontbriand is a founding faculty member at TechBoston Academy in the Boston Public Schools, where he has taught Civics and Government since 2005. He holds a PhD in Educational Administration from Boston College, where his doctoral research focused on the transformative power of project-based learning. Known to his students as “Dr. P,” he is a 2022 NEASC Service Award recipient with over 28 years of experience in the field of education. In addition to his work in the classroom, Dr. Pontbriand serves as the Human Resource Director for TechBoston Academy and the Accreditation Coordinator for the entire Boston Public School district. He is deeply committed to youth leadership and helping students use their voices to drive positive change in their local communities.