The social studies curriculum focuses on providing students the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to live and work with others in an ever-changing world. At each grade level, the social studies curriculum addresses the areas of geography, culture, civics/government, history, anthropology/sociology, and economics. Students acquire the skills needed to locate and interpret information, express ideas, think critically, and problem-solve. Students gain an understanding of the rights, responsibilities, and opportunities of citizenship. In addition, each grade level (K-8) has a Kansas unit in which students learn about the state and the community of Lawrence and Douglas County. Emphasis is placed on using a variety of instructional techniques, materials, and activities in developing the students’ social studies education.  High school students also have the opportunity to enroll in an assortment of Advanced Placement (AP) courses that may be used for college credit.