Teaching American History?
by Linda Matts, Anna Bartsch and Mona Bodle

What is TAH?

TAH is a federally funded grant that strives to help teachers teach traditional American History in an exciting new way. The first academy was held in the summer of 2003 at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. The participants developed strategies that would help teachers to help students to become more interested in the study of history, especially American History. We have continued to grow and get stronger. Just ask teachers in the Region 5 area. They will be happy to tell you all about the program.

Is it worth it?

Those of us who have participated certainly think so. Why? FOUR reasons come to mind: the first is the fantastic opportunity to learn history, the second is the networking achieved, the third is the deep bonds of friendship that developed from living and working with people for three weeks and fourth is MONEY.

This workshop pays you to attend. Not only do you get the opportunity to learn some fascinating history, but you also share an amazing experience with other teachers. You live at SHSU for 5 days a week and go home on the weekends. Best of all, you earn a stipend for attendance. How cool does $2500 sound? This is the opportunity you should not pass up.

The networking opportunities and the bonds of friendship are beyond compare. We know this may sound like a scene from a movie script, but it is TRUE. In each of the years this program has been in effect, we have celebrated together birthdays, anniversaries, and baby showers! Some have met fiancés and future spouses and shared in many other life experiences. We are FAMILY.

What is expected?

• Casual dress (Shorts and sandals are fine.)
• Be prepared to read new material, to laugh, play, and shop.
• Come with a heart for history!