The Landmark Moments Fellowship teachers explored the eastern seaboard June 9-15, 2024, in Connecticut and Rhode Island. The first stop was at the Connecticut state capitol. Then it was on to the Mark Twain House and Museum to view where The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and other notable literary works were written. The Bedford Whaling Museum allowed the teachers to dive into the history and culture of the “Old Dartmouth” region of the coast. While in Newport, Rhode Island, the teachers explored the lavish Gilded Age mansions. Michael Evans, Wellston Middle School, reflected, “I enjoyed learning more about the Gilded Age. The mansion tours provided a perspective of the large amount of wealth 

accumulated by families such as the Vanderbilts and Wetmores.” At the Rhode Island State House, Gregg Amore, Secretary of State, visited with teachers and shared about his experiences teaching social studies, serving as a state representative, and being elected to state office. Vivian Radabaugh, Vinton County Middle School, said “Visiting the capitol buildings of two states and meeting the Secretary of State were tremendous opportunities to understand the political climate of Connecticut and Rhode Island. I also got to experience 

a Naturalization Ceremony that was fascinating.” Other venues visited included the Old Slater Mill, Harkness Memorial State Park, the Mystic Seaport Museum, and the old Connecticut State House. Dr. Ron Morris, history professor at Ball State University, provided the relationship to state standards during the field studies.

The Landmark Moments Fellowship provides real life experiences to social studies, language arts, and special education teachers in Grades 7-12 in order for them to expand and enhance their classroom lessons. Teachers report utilizing many new teaching strategies, providing more in-depth content, and displaying artifacts in their daily instruction as a result of participating in the program.