The Ivy Hero: Transformational Teaching Through History, Literacy, and Student Engagement

Thursday, June 4, 2026

National Medal of Honor Museum – Learning Lab

9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Overview

One story can change how students experience history.

This professional development workshop centers on The Ivy Hero, connecting the life of Medal of Honor Recipient Sgt. William Shemin to classroom instruction in both history and literacy.

Through a structured, text-based approach, educators will explore how a single narrative—supported by primary sources and inquiry—can anchor meaningful, interdisciplinary learning.

Why It Matters

Stories create meaning and give students a way in.

By grounding instruction in a rich historical narrative, educators can help students:

• Strengthen reading and critical thinking skills

• Engage more deeply with historical context

• Make connections between past and present

• Reflect on values like courage, commitment, and integrity

This approach aligns with the Museum’s belief that stories help students understand both history and their own potential to act with character.

What You’ll Experience

• Guided exploration of The Ivy Hero as a teaching tool

• Integrated literacy strategies including vocabulary, synthesis, and discussion

• Inquiry-based frameworks for deeper thinking

• Use of primary sources to build context

• Lesson design aligned to TEKS standards

• Insights from the book’s authors

Registration

What’s Included:
Copy of The Ivy Hero book

Full-day workshop

Museum experience

Lunch

Cost: $25

Registration Closes: May 25

When students follow one story closely, they begin to see history differently.

Join us to explore how a single narrative can transform how students read, think, and connect.