2008 George Washington Teachers’ Institute, Applications due April 4, 2008

This message is from Stephanie Hartman, Social Studies Coordinator for the State of Nevada.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens is pleased to announce that through the generous support of the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, Nevada educators are now eligible to attend the George Washington Teachers’ Institute. Now in its tenth year, the Institute provides a one-week study program at George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, in northern Virginia for ten Nevada teachers from public and non-public schools, teaching in grades three through twelve.

The Institute’s weeklong program provides an intensive immersion study of George Washington and his world. The curriculum includes discussions led by noted Washington scholars and hands-on workshops exploring Washington’s life and interests at Mount Vernon. Participating teachers will meet with Mount Vernon’s historians, curators, and educators; and will spend a day in Philadelphia, Colonial Williamsburg or Washington’s hometown of Alexandria, Virginia exploring 18th century colonial life and politics. Through study, discussion, tours, and projects, participants will gain a new and deeper understanding of the life and character of George Washington and his unique legacy in creating and shaping the principles of America’s democracy.

This year, they are providing an abbreviated workshop format for lower elementary teachers. The workshop is an intensive three day, hands-on learning experience for teachers of grades 3 – 5.

Upon completing the Institute’s study program, teachers are required to prepare a lesson plan, suitable for publication and distribution to teachers across the nation, providing engaging, quality guidance on teaching about the life and contributions of George Washington. Teachers are also required to conduct a seminar for their colleagues in their home districts to share the information they have gained at the Institute.

Teachers enrolled in the Institute will reside in lodgings on the grounds of historic Mount Vernon, within sight of Washington’s Mansion. The Institute will provide each participating teacher with room and board during the Institute and a stipend of up to $350.00 to offset travel expenses.

Institute Dates:
High School: July 19 – 25, 2008
Middle School: July 8 – 14, 2008
Elementary School (Grades 3 – 5): June 24 – June 27, 2008
Elementary/Middle School (Grades 5 – 8): August 2 – 8, 2008

The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation is a national philanthropic organization founded in 1954 by the late media entrepreneur for whom it is named. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, it is one of the largest private foundations in the United States.

Contact Stephanie Hartman for more information and a Nevada application.