George Washington Teacher’s Institute

George Washington Teacher’s Institute 2008

George Washington Teacher’s Institute

A week-long professional development program of the

highest quality!

What is it? Established in 1999, the George

Washington Teachers' Institute is a highly competitive program which brings teachers to Mount Vernon, Virginia for an intensive week of study at Washington's home.  Participating teachers immerse themselves in the study and discussion of this critical period of American history and the remarkable role George Washington played in the founding of our nation.

Objectives of the program Explore the character and accomplishments of

George Washington while living on his 18th century estate

Engage in an active exploration of 18th century history with top historians

Participate in interactive workshops, tours, fieldtrips, and group projects

Discuss how to integrate the teaching of history into English, Science, Math, and Geography curricula

Return to your classroom and share new knowledge, teaching materials, and enthusiasm with your students

Additional information All teachers accepted into the Institute will receive a travel

stipend of up to $350 and reside on the grounds of Washington's home.  Participants are required to complete one lesson plan for dissemination to teachers across the nation on the Mount Vernon website.  Further information is available in the 2009 Teachers Institute brochure. 

June 22-26, 2009        Teachers, grades 5 –                                  

July 13-16, 2009          Teachers, grades 3 - 5 (workshop format) 

July 20-24, 2009          Teachers, grades 9 - 12  August 3-7, 2009         Teachers, grades 8 – 12       

Piazza facing the river

View from the piazza facing the river

The group in the rear of the house before private tour

Enjoying live music of Washington’s time at supper with

David Hildebrand

Learning 18th century surveying with role playing – Willie Balderson was intense!

Relaxing at the piazza reception after a day of classes

A conversation with recently married Martha Washington

Gristmill tour

Gristmill tour – a working water wheel gristmill!

Gristmill tour – Washington’s distillery

Picnic supper after the gristmill tour

George and Martha Washington’s tomb

Wreath-laying ceremony – very moving!

Potomac riverfront at Mount Vernon

Sunrise walk on the grounds