Summer 2026 · Pages 8

Education Department

Education Department - image 2
Erica Harris, Director of Education.

Spring has been an exciting and meaningful season at the National Museum of Military Vehicles. Our galleries have been filled with students from across Wyoming and beyond, and we’re thrilled to see so many young people engaging with history in hands on, memorable ways. With even more field trips scheduled throughout May and June, we’re looking forward to welcoming many more schools and students in the weeks ahead.

We still have a few dates available, so if you know a school or educator hoping to plan a visit, please encourage them to reach out or visit the Schools tab on our website. Field trips are a powerful way to connect students with real stories, real artifacts, and the people who shaped our nation’s history.

Newly developed lessons include:

  • PFC Robert Brooks: Exploring the life of the first African American soldier to die in WWII and the broader story of service, sacrifice, and racial barriers in the U.S. military.
  • The Women’s Army Corps: Highlighting the groundbreaking contributions of women during WWII and how their service reshaped opportunities for future generations.
  • The M4A3E8 “Easy Eight” Sherman: Investigating one of the most iconic tanks of the war and the engineering innovations that made it so effective.

You can find all our lesson plans by visiting the Schools tab on our website.

Looking ahead, our nation is preparing to mark a historic milestone: in 2026, the United States will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence (1776–2026), often called America250 or the Semiquincentennial. It’s a moment to reflect on the Revolutionary era and the ideals that shaped the country, while also considering how those ideas have been tested, expanded, and carried forward by generations of Americans.

For us at the Museum, it’s another powerful reminder of why hands-on learning matters—helping students connect big national anniversaries to the real people, choices, and sacrifices that form our shared history.

As summer approaches, we’d also love to welcome families and young visitors to the Museum. If you’re looking for a meaningful and fun way to spend a day, bring the kids in to explore the galleries, and be sure to ask about our scavenger hunt, a great way for children to stay engaged as they discover vehicles, artifacts, and stories throughout the Museum. We hope to see you this summer!

As Director of Education, my goal is to support not only teachers, but the entire community. Whether you’re interested in bringing students, exploring new learning materials, or partnering on community programming, I’m always eager to collaborate.

Thank you for your continued support of the Museum’s mission and for helping us ensure that the stories of service and sacrifice continue to inspire future generations.

Images from this story