The Polk County History Center is dedicated to enriching the learning experience for Polk County’s future leaders through tours, programs, activities, lectures and community outreach. Educational programs and tours designed for classroom students, scouts and other large groups are outlined below.
Curated Field Trips for Students
Story Seekers (Elementary school learners)
Descripción
In this program, classes can visit the History Center to explore a thematic selection of exhibits that match their in-class curriculum and discuss careers in historical preservation. Prior to the visit, the teacher will coordinate with the education team to select up to four exhibits for the tour.
Programación
- Los grupos deben solicitar una reserva seis semanas antes de la visita prevista.
- Los grupos no pueden superar los 50 alumnos por visita; pueden programarse varias visitas.
- Los contenidos están pensados para alumnos de primaria.
Journeys in Justice (Middle school learners)
Descripción
Este programa se centra en compartir la rica historia judicial del condado de Polk con los estudiantes de secundaria y consiste tanto en una excursión como en un plan de estudios en el aula.
When classes visit the Polk County History Center, they will tour the 1908 court room and participate in a trial simulation. With an emphasis on the U.S. Constitution, the curriculum explores the role of the courts, the Bill of Rights and subsequent amendments that impact the judicial process.
Los educadores participantes recibirán recursos adicionales para ampliar la experiencia de aprendizaje y comprobar la comprensión. Estos recursos están totalmente digitalizados e incluyen copias maestras, hojas de respuestas y una guía en vídeo de la sala de vistas.
Programación
- Los grupos deben solicitar una reserva seis semanas antes de la visita prevista.
- Los grupos no pueden superar los 30 alumnos por visita; pueden programarse varias visitas.
- Los contenidos están pensados para alumnos de enseñanza media.
Research 101 (High school and college-level learners)
Descripción
In this program, high school and college students are introduced to historical research utilizing the primary resources at the Polk County History Center. This program is ideal for students participating in National History Day, debate team, model legislature, model United Nations or in a course of study related to historical research.
Programación
- Los grupos deben solicitar una reserva cuatro semanas antes de la visita prevista.
- Los grupos no pueden superar los 15 alumnos por visita; se pueden programar varias visitas.
- Content is designed for high school to college-level learners.
Schedule a Field Trip
Would you like to schedule a field trip or learning experience? Please note that there are limitations on group sizes. However, we are happy to design programs that accommodate larger groups across multiple visits or through dual sessions (morning and afternoon visits). Fill out the contact form below and History Center staff will reach out to you.
Groups are not required to be connected to a school or organization in order to plan a learning experience. Homeschool groups, scout groups, etc., are also welcome to reach out.
Virtual Resources
Learn about Polk County history from right where you are through the virtual resources below.
- Heritage Trails
- The Polk County Heritage Trail and Citrus Crate Label Tour is open for those who are interested in Polk County’s rich history. The Heritage Trail will help you navigate Polk County to explore more than 150 years of Polk history and culture.
- Florida Stories
- “Florida Stories” audio tours are high-quality, packed with photos and rich audio that will open your eyes to many of Florida’s cities and towns in a way you’ve never experienced before. Explore Bartow and Lake Wales without leaving the classroom.
- Zoom and Vroom
- Learn more about our community and our local history through Zoom and Vroom. This free virtual program provides you with the tools to get out and explore the history that surrounds us.
- History Center Curated Programs