At Franklin Central High School, government classes extend far beyond textbooks and lectures. For students, they serve as an active introduction to citizenship—one that emphasizes participation, responsibility, and real-world impact.
That experience is shaped by Tim Sokolowski, a longtime Social Studies teacher whose approach to Civic Education has left a lasting impression on students, colleagues, and the broader Flashes community. Solowski is in his 13th year of teaching Advanced Placement U.S. Government, We the People, and U.S. Government at Franklin Central.
His commitment to engaging students and helping them understand how to participate in government actively has now earned recognition beyond Franklin Central. Indiana University recently named Solowski a 2025–2026 Indiana University Armstrong Teacher Educator, one of only six educators statewide selected for the honor. In this role, he will serve on a panel supporting pre-service teachers during the 2025–2026 academic year.
The distinction recognizes not only Sokolowski’s work in the classroom but also his broader contributions as a mentor teacher with the Indiana Bar Foundation, Senior Class sponsor, Commencement Director, and teacher/coach of the We the People program. Through the national We The People program, students dive deeply into the U.S. Constitution, political systems, historical documents, and landmark Supreme Court cases.
Students say Sokolowski’s teaching stands out because it makes government tangible. Through hands-on activities such as mock Congress and mock Supreme Court simulations, students experience the pace, pressure, and complexity of real governmental decision-making.
“Being able to apply what we’re learning to real-life situations enhances my education,” Franklin Central Senior Emma Hawk said. “It helps me understand the topics better because I can actually see how they work.”
Students in Sokolowski’s We the People and AP Government classes noted that these simulations helped them better understand why passing legislation or issuing court decisions can be challenging. Others said the lessons made civic participation feel more meaningful and accessible after learning how government functions, students feel more informed—and more motivated to vote and engage.
“When you understand the process, you’re more encouraged to be involved,” Hawk said.
Much of that impact comes fromSokolowski’s teaching style. Students consistently describe him as approachable, energetic, and authentic. Rather than relying on rote memorization, he uses storytelling, court cases, and hypothetical scenarios to humanize the government and connect it to students’ lives.
“I think Mr. Sokolowski is the best kind of teacher to teach controversial topics,” Franklin Central Senior Sahib Singh said. “He’s not afraid to talk about intense, opinionated issues, but he does it in a way where you never feel like you’re going against him—you’re just learning how to be an American citizen.”
Students also point to his enthusiasm for the subject as a key reason they feel engaged in class.
“You can tell he really loves what he teaches,” Franklin Central Senior Hadley West said. “That creates a better environment and makes it easier to focus and want to learn.”
Beyond the classroom, Sokolowski plays a significant role in shaping the Senior experience at Franklin Central. As Senior Class Sponsor and Commencement Director, he coordinates graduation planning, senior events, and communication with students and families.
“He sets us up for success,” West said. “There’s always communication, and he walks us through everything.”
Franklin Central administrators say Sokolowski’s impact extends well beyond the school. They describe him as a highly skilled educator deeply invested in continuous improvement and Civic Education at both the school and state levels.
“Public education is one of the strongest checks and balances in our country,” Franklin Central Principal Zak Tschiniak said. “Teachers like Tim Sokolowski prepare students to be informed, objective citizens who can engage thoughtfully, regardless of political party.”
Through We the People, Advanced Placement Government, and U.S. Government courses, Sokolowski helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and civic leadership skills. Several former students have gone on to pursue careers in education, law, and public service.
The IU Armstrong program emphasizes mentorship, classroom practice, and giving back to the profession, values that closely align with Sokolowski’s approach to teaching.
“I’ve always loved Social Studies and Civic Education,” Sokolowski said. “I love learning about how regular citizens have the ability to impact their government, and I love being able to share that with young people.”
Reflecting on his career, he added, “I get to share content that I’m passionate about every single day. Most students aren’t going to become lawyers or politicians, but they will be citizens. And citizens need to understand their community and their government. I feel honored and very proud that that’s my job.”
Through purposeful learning and meaningful collaboration, Tim Sokolowski continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of Franklin Central students—bringing FTCSC’s mission to life each day. Congratulations to Tim on his well-deserved recognition.
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