Why Teachers Trust Jonathan Milner

Jonathan Milner is a nationally recognized educator, curriculum designer, and professional development leader specializing in social studies and AP U.S. Government and Politics. For more than three decades, he has helped students and teachers develop the knowledge, analytical skills, and civic understanding needed to engage meaningfully with American democracy.

Jonathan is the founder of Social Studies Lab (formerly GoPoPro), launched in 2012 to provide rigorous, engaging, and inquiry-driven resources for social studies classrooms. Through Social Studies Lab, he creates curriculum, classroom activities, and professional development programs used by teachers and schools across the United States. His work emphasizes critical thinking, real-world political analysis, and student-centered learning.

A Career in the Classroom

Jonathan began his teaching career in 1993 and has taught in a wide range of educational settings—from urban classrooms in Houston, Texas, to advanced academic programs in North Carolina. His experience includes teaching at:

• an inner-city public school in Houston

• an AP magnet school in Winston-Salem

• North Carolina Governor's School

• University of North Carolina School of the Arts

Across these environments, Jonathan built a reputation for creating dynamic classrooms where students analyze ideas, debate issues, and connect historical and political concepts to contemporary life.

His teaching excellence has been widely recognized. In 2002 he received the Marcellus Waddill Excellence in Teaching Award, and in 2003 he was named Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Teacher of the Year.

Leadership in AP Government

Jonathan has spent many years working beyond the classroom to support educators nationwide. He has served as a:

• College Board Consultant

• AP Exam Reader

• AP Summer Institute Leader

• National Math and Science Initiative Fellow

In these roles, he leads workshops, institutes, and professional learning programs for teachers across the country. His sessions focus on improving civic literacy, building strong analytical skills, and helping students succeed on the AP Government exam while developing a deeper understanding of democratic institutions.

Global Education and Civic Engagement

Jonathan’s commitment to education extends beyond U.S. classrooms. In 1999 he founded Global Arts, an international exchange initiative that has connected American students with peers in Bosnia, Israel, and Kenya.

In 2012 the program began a continuing partnership with Zanmi Beni in Port-au-Prince. Each year, American high school students participate in week-long arts and crafts camps with children at the home, combining cultural exchange with service learning.

Teaching for Citizenship

At the heart of Jonathan’s work is a belief that civic education is essential to a healthy democracy. His curriculum and classroom practices encourage students to think critically about public policy, analyze political institutions, and see themselves as active participants in civic life.

Jonathan currently teaches civics at the Winston-Salem Street School, where he continues to work directly with students while developing curriculum used by teachers nationwide.

Life in Winston-Salem

Jonathan lives in Winston-Salem with his wife Cary, their dogs Honey and Roger, and a lively flock of egg-laying hens and ducks. He jokes that his home sits at about 970 feet above sea level, a fact that may or may not be relevant to the study of American government—but is nevertheless true.

AND THEN THERE’S ROGER

Roger the AP Beagle is the official mascot and self-appointed Civic Canine for Social Studies Lab. As a devoted student of constitutional principles, Roger takes his responsibility seriously—working hard to help create a more perfect dog biscuit.

When he’s not studying the branches of government, Roger spends most of his time lobbying Congress (also known as the backyard committee) for increased Frisbee time, expanded belly‑rub programs, and fair representation for all squeaky toys.

Roger believes strongly in the values of civic participation. Whether a dog prefers tennis balls or chew ropes, naps on the left side of the couch or the right, Roger reminds us that every voice deserves to be heard. After all, in a healthy democracy—and a happy dog park—we listen respectfully, wag our tails, and make room for different opinions.

Because no matter which side of the yard you’re on, good citizens—and good dogs—know that respect keeps the whole pack together. 🐾