KHS partners with KDE to distribute activity guide to Kentucky migrant students

As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Kentucky Historical Society received 4,000 copies of "Summer Road Trip" to distribute across Kentucky. “Summer Road Trip” is a 40-page print activity guide that uses the vast collections and expertise of the Smithsonian to take learners on a summer “road trip” of discovery. Through hands-on activities, puzzles, and games, students can explore topics in STEM, history and the arts. The guide features bilingual Spanish/English language content. KHS partnered with the Kentucky Department of Education's (KDE) Migrant Education program and nearly 3,800 copies were distributed across the state to connect with children that would benefit greatly from these resources. Christina Benassi, Migrant State Director with KDE stated, "I am thankful for the opportunity to share valuable resources to our KY Migrant students. During this time these magazines provide learning opportunities to our families that may not have internet access. Thank you!" KDE is planning to distribute more of these guides in the months to come. “Educational materials based on Smithsonian research, collections and programming engage and inspire students and teachers across the nation,” said Lonnie Bunch, the Secretary of the Smithsonian. “This guide will help the Smithsonian to not only reach every classroom in America but also to share our resources beyond traditional places of learning and reach students where they are.” “Summer Road Trip” uses the theme of a road trip and iconic collections from the Smithsonian to connect activities across disciplines. Learners are encouraged to let their minds wander and embark on a trip to the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., making stops along the way to visit an artist’s gallery, explore local cuisine, learn about the local wildlife and much more. This guide is specifically designed to provide activities that can be done without access to the internet or a computer. As the nation continues to navigate education in the midst of a pandemic, the Smithsonian realizes it is important for young learners to have access to high-quality resources that span from high-tech to tech-free. For more information about the "Summer Road Trip" guide, contact Megan Sauter, museums program manager at KHS.