Second grade teachers will work with Dr. Ted Green of Webster University to study the background of famous Americans to determine how their words and deeds contributed to the story of America.  Teachers will travel to Washington, D.C. to study at the Smithsonian Institute in order to study the biographical background of famous Americans including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

At the National Portrait Gallery teachers will experience "A Brush with History" exhibit and "Portraits of Presidents."  Throughout the school year teachers will participate in book studies and discussion.  Teachers will incorporate the concepts into their classrooms and then return to the Smithsonian Institute for a three-day seminar.

Saturday seminars will promote the use of literacy strategies and historical thinking as teachers bring history alive through biography.  Teachers will also have the opportunity to study at the Truman Presidential library and museum.  Teachers will share their expertise in a culminating social studies mini-conference.