School Groups
The Pearce Museum invites you and your class to step back in time and experience two events of the 19th century that forged our nation’s identity — the American Civil War and the westward expansion that followed. Enrich your curriculum and complement your classroom studies with our educational programs created to meet TEKS requirements for specific grade levels. While the programs are designed for specific elementary, middle, and high school grades, anyone can be adapted to fit your students’ grade level.
To schedule one of the group programs listed below, email Robert O’Toole at robert.otoole@navarrocollege.edu .
School Group Programs
PROGRAM | PROGRAM LENGTH | IDEAL FOR | RATE |
Brushes & BattlesCivil War & Western Art ProgramA combined gallery program designed for large groups. Students tour the Civil War and Western Art galleries while docents highlight the major themes of the Civil War and unique works of art in each. | 1.5 - 2 Hours | Large / Multiple Classes | $4 per student |
Then & Now Civil War & Western Art Program | 1 - 1.5 Hours | Large / Multiple Classes | $4 per student |
Major EngagementsIn-Depth Civil War ProgramAn in-depth look at the American Civil War — what caused it and what happened afterwards, the major battles and the major players, what life was like for a soldier in the field, and the role that Texas played in our country’s bloodiest conflict. Students may keep a journal while in the gallery or write a letter home as part of the learning experience. Includes a 17 minute introductory video and battlefield experience. | 1 - 1.5 Hours | Small / Single Classes | $3 per student |
Paintbrushes WestIn-Depth Art ProgramStudents examine the six basic elements of artistic expression through observation, personal expressions through observation, personal interpretation, and hand-on creativity. They will learn how to read and understand a piece of art as they would a story; and with each work explore a new chapter in the history of the American West. As part of the program, students create their own piece of western art. Please speak with the Art Curator to develop a specific art program to fit your needs. | 1 Hour | Small / Single Classes | $4 per student |
Western WaysWestward Expansion ProgramExperience stories of the Old West through Western Art. Students will learn to read a work of art by exercising observation and critical thinking skills. With each new work of art, students explore another chapter in the history of the American West; from cowboys and Indians to wagon trains and cattle drives. | 1 Hour | Small / Single Classes | $3 per student |
Beyond the Stacks: A Visit to the ArchivesSpecialized Study & Historical ResearchJust what is an archive? Find out when your students take a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the museum’s archive facility. Learn what you can find in an archive, the difference between primary and secondary sources, how to do historical research, and how to handle original documents. | 1 Hour | 20 students or less | $3 per student |
Pre-Visit Preview
Teachers may schedule a free pre-visit tour of the museum to prepare for their trip. Please call to make arrangements.
Payment
Cash, credit card, or check as payment is due on the date of your visit.
Checks should be made payable to: The Cook Education Center
Chaperones
We require one adult chaperone for
every ten students. Teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers are admitted
at no cost. Chaperones above the one to ten ratio must pay the standard
program rate. Teachers and chaperones are responsible for the
supervision and discipline of their students at all times.
Gift Store
Please allow plenty of time to visit the Cook Center Store in the atrium. Ask about pre-packaged gift sacks.
Special Programs
Special programs can be designed for students’ needs. Please ask to speak with museum staff when scheduling.
- Bus drivers and one teacher per class admitted free
- One chaperone per 10 children admitted free (required)
- Additional chaperones/teachers pay student fee