The Bush Library and Museum is thrilled to announce new educational programs for K-12 student groups. Understanding the unique needs of each class, we take pride in creating classroom experiences that align with the most current Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. Working with our teachers, we can tailor the content to their preferences.
Our classroom programming is enriched by a vast array of historical documents and materials from the National Archives and Records Administration. Our courses take a comprehensive approach to exploring American History, the Presidency, and George H.W. Bush's life and era. A key emphasis of our program is cultivating civic responsibility and deepening appreciation for democratic values.
For a detailed overview of each course and to start planning your visit, we invite teachers to contact us by email or phone. We are dedicated to delivering a valuable educational experience that prepares students to be informed and engaged participants in our democracy. To ensure the best experience for all students, we request that each class be limited to 80 participants.
Onsite Classroom Programs
All Grade Levels
The Sound of Our Music
The Sound of Our Music is an engaging classroom lesson designed to explore the powerful role of music in shaping American history and culture. Through this lesson, students will examine how music has reflected and influenced key eras in American history, including the Civil War, the Great Depression, and the Vietnam War era.
All Grade Levels
America at 250 - A Journey Through Our History
America at 250 is an immersive classroom lesson that celebrates the nation’s 250-year history by highlighting key moments and milestones in American development. Using first-hand historical documents, students will embark on a journey through time to explore how the United States has evolved socially, politically, and culturally over the centuries.
All Grade Levels
President George H.W. Bush and His Policies
This lesson examines the pivotal role of President George H.W. Bush in the history of civil rights and disability advocacy through his leadership in the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Students will explore how President Bush’s support and advocacy helped turn a groundbreaking civil rights bill into law, fostering greater accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities across the United States.
1st - 4th Grade
My Vote Counts, Too: Exploring Voting and Civics
In "My Vote Counts, Too," elementary students will embark on an exciting exploration of voting and civics. Through engaging activities, interactive discussions, and enjoyable projects, young learners will uncover the significance of their voices and the importance of being active citizens in their communities. They will also have the chance to learn about the 1988 election that brought George H.W. Bush to the presidency as our 41st President. Join us as we learn, explore, and celebrate the power of democracy together!
1st - 6th Grade
The American President
In this engaging lesson titled "The American President," students will explore the vital role of the president in American history and the impact of significant leaders on the nation. Through interactive discussions, group activities, and a visit to the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, students will have a deeper understanding of the presidency and key figures' contributions to U.S. history.
7th - 12th Grade
George H.W. Bush: The Presidency & His Legacy
This engaging lesson explores the presidency of George H.W. Bush, focusing on his significant contributions to American history and public service. Students will analyze pivotal moments in President Bush's career, from his early diplomatic roles to his impactful presidency and beyond. Through interactive discussions, group activities, and a visit to the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the legacy of our 41st President.
7th - 12th Grade
My Vote Counts, Too 2.0: Exploring Civic Engagement and Voting Rights
"My Vote Counts, Too 2.0" is a dynamic and engaging program aimed at educating middle school and high school students about the importance of civic engagement, voting rights, and the democratic process. Through interactive lessons, discussions, and activities, students will delve into the history of voting rights in the United States, understand the significance of participating in elections, and discover how citizens can shape their communities and country. Join us in empowering the next generation of civic and community leaders!
Online Classroom Programs
Mrs. Bush's Storytime (Pre-K - 2nd Grade)
Students will hear recordings of Mrs. Bush reading several popular children’s books while being introduced to the love of reading and literacy
Museum Discovery (Pre-K - 2nd Grade)
Students will discover appropriate museum manners while touring the Ansary Gallery of American History as well as the Literacy Out Look Gallery.
My Own Room at the White House (1st - 3rd Grade)
Students will explore the White House to experience what it would be like to live in the President’s House. They will design and draw their own room as well as write a descriptive paragraph which may be bound into a class book.
Holidays in the White House (1st - 4th Grade)
Students will become familiar with how the Bush family celebrated the winter holidays in the White House.
The Presidential Quilt (1st - 4th Grade)
Students will explore American history through symbols significant to America’s past. Students will actively design a “quilt square” representing symbols of America. Student will understand how a symbol can represent an important idea.
Tic-Tac America (5th - 9th Grade)
Students will distinguish use problem solving skill to find answers to question regarding history, geography, and the Presidency of the United States.
City Council Role-Play (5th - 9th Grade)
Students will use and develop problem solving skills to achieve a favorable solution to a real-world problem through the framework of a municipal government using the city council and other local officials.
Rise and Fall of the Berlin Wall (7th - 12th Grade)
Students will recognize the impact of International Affairs regarding the impact of the rise and fall of the Berlin Wall, following World War II on citizens of Germany, United States, USSR (now Russia), and Europe considering the implications on society as a whole.
Bill of Rights Texas v. Johnson, 1989, Flag Burning Case (7th - 12th Grade)
Students will actively participate in problem solving skills and decision-making strategies as they explore the Bill of Rights and the actions of Judicial review when looking at the case of Texas vs. Johnson flag burning case.