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Michelle Herczog honored for her achievements in social studies

Michelle Herczog

Michelle Herczog, history-social science coordinator at the Los Angeles County Office of Education, is this year’s recipient of the Hilda Taba Award, the highest honor given by the California Council for the Social Studies.

The award is given to someone who has made a professional contribution to social studies education in California and significantly influenced the field over time. Herczog directs the California Democracy School Initiative and provides instructional support for educators across the state. She received the honor Saturday at the council’s annual conference in Santa Clara. 

Among her contributions is helping to establish the California Seal of Civic Engagement, which students receive for academic excellence and work on a project of civic achievement.

Herczog has served on the Social Studies Committee of the Council of Chief State School Officers, California Instructional Quality Commission and the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning. She currently serves on the California chief justice’s Power of Democracy Steering Committee.

Describing her work on the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, Rob Vicario, president of the California Council for the Social Studies, said, “Alongside scholars, justices and superintendents, Michelle was a powerhouse: well-informed, diplomatic, authentic, and ultimately, well-respected and liked. She stood out in that blue ribbon group as a competent and passionate voice for students and educators.”

“There are not enough superlatives to describe the work that Michelle has done and continues to do for social studies education in California and the nation,” wrote Jim Charkins, director of the Center for Economics Education at CSU San Bernardino, in nominating her for the award. 


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