I had the opportunity to participate in Northside ISD's Teaching American History Grant during the 2008-2009 school year.  Participants attended lectures given by professors from local universities throughout the year.  The experience culminated with a week-long trip to Washington, D.C.  

 

In addition to visiting historical sites and monuments, we attended programs at the Smithsonian Institution that focused on developing classroom curriculum in a 'museum experience' style.  The highlight for me was our behind-the-scenes tour of the Natural History Museum's 'Written in Bone' exhibit, given by curator Dr. Owsley.

 

For more information on the Teaching American History Grant program, visit their home page.