June 2004:

The Institute hosts its first summer program at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens.

Shaping the Constitution: A View from Mt. Vernon, 1783-1789 brings educators from around the nation to our first president’s home.  Teachers explore George Washington and his role in the development of the Constitution through guided tours, scholarly presentations, and discussion sessions.  In a week, a participant may take a boat ride on the Potomac River, hear a lecture about George Washington’s friendship with James Madison, and enjoy wine and cheese on the piazza of Mt. Vernon – all while developing skills and knowledge they can bring back to the classroom.

Since the first event in 2004, nearly 700 teachers from all 50 states have attended these summer institutes at Mt. Vernon.  The program has also hosted educators from 8 countries, including Vietnam, South Africa, and Jordan.