The NRHC has education trunks that will be available in Fall 2008 for teachers to check out. These trunks allow classes to enjoy a preview of the NRHC field trip experience in their own classroom. Topics include "Pioneer Living" and "A Day on the Trail" with more to come.

"A Day on the Trail" focuses on cowboy life and how the early cattle drives changed ranching practices. Students will learn about the difficulties of the trail and the different experiences of the cowboys who drove the cattle to market.

"Pioneer Living" encourages students to learn about the hardships and traditions of the pioneers who helped to settle the West. Artifacts in this trunk reflect the routines of daily life and also illustrate the resourcefulness of the pioneers.

Located in the Georgia Mae Ericson Education Room is a children's library with a large collection of Western-themed children's books, fiction and non-fiction, available for review on site and for use in educational programming.

Professional Development workshops will be periodically offered for educators. These workshops correspond with exhibitions and/or events held at the NRHC. Schedules for educator programs will be posted on our Web site.

Ranch Hosts are volunteers who assist with educational programs and special projects at the NRHC. They enable the NRHC to expand services and activities for visitors, educators and researchers. Ranch Hosts help bring the Center to life by transforming the historic structures into learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. Ranch Hosts are also available to come to your school to assist with programs pertaining to Texas history, ranching and pioneer life.