Fort Ligonier provides an array of programs that offer teachers inspiring and creative ideas for integrating history into the classroom. From workshops that fulfill your Act 48 requirements, to resources that strengthen the foundation of history curriculum, and programs that connect local history across disciplines, consider Fort Ligonier your headquarters for support.
Resources to fortify your classroom
Fort Ligonier’s education department has developed curriculum kits that teachers of grades 4-5 can borrow and use in the classroom. These kits contain lessons that connect the history of Fort Ligonier to disciplinary literacy, student resource books, hands-on materials and other invaluable classroom use materials. Contact Mary Manges at mmanges@fortligonier.org or 724.238.9701 to make arrangements to borrow a kit.
The link to the online curriculum module can be found at www.ldc.org.
Detailed module instructions can be found here.
EITC Program and other funding assistance
For Schools
The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) is a tax credit program in Pennsylvania that allows approved businesses to donate their state tax money to an approved educational organization in the state. Fort Ligonier is a qualified to receive these monies and can then pass them on to public school students.
EITC funds can help offset the cost of your field trip by covering the admission costs, up to $10 per student. These funds are limited and are on a first-come basis. For more information about these funds, contact Mary Manges, Director of Education at mmanges@fortligonier.org or 724-238-9701.
For Businesses
Corporate Net Income Tax
Capital Stock Franchise Tax
Title Insurance Companies Shares Tax
Insurance Premiums Tax
Mutual Thrift Institution Tax
Personal Income Tax of S corporation shareholders or Partnership partners
DCED determines the eligibility of businesses, scholarship organizations and educational improvement organizations. Businesses need to complete a brief application to the DCED stating the amount they plan to contribute. The DCED will notify businesses if their applications are approved. After receiving approval, businesses have 60 days to make the contribution to Fort Ligonier (an approved educational improvement organization). The business must also submit a copy of the confirmation of contribution from Fort Ligonier to the DCED.
The form is available by calling the DCED at: 717-787-7120. More information can be found at this link http://www.newpa.com/find-and-apply-for-funding/funding-and-program-finder/educational-improvement-tax-credit-program-eitc and a business can download the application form by clicking EITC_Business_2012_F.pdf.
Act 48 Workshops
For teachers in search of fun and informative professional development, Fort Ligonier’s teacher programs provide inspiring and creative ideas for integrating history into your curriculum. Our workshop participants gain insight, ideas, lesson plans and activities to take back to the classroom. Participants will also walk away with content knowledge of our local history during the French and Indian War.
The typical cost is $20.00 per workshop, and the price includes workshop materials and admission to Fort Ligonier. Upon completion of the workshop, Fort Ligonier will submit your Act 48 hours to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
To register for one of our programs, or to schedule a workshop for your group, please contact Director of Education, Mary Manges at: 724-238-9701 or mmanges@fortligonier.org.
Workshops
Calling all Administrators!
Bring Your Troops for Training!
Fort Ligonier is the perfect HQ for an all-school staff development day.
Experience team building through the lens of history, experience multidisciplinary learning layered under the centuries, and discover ways to energize your teachers with a unique learning experience—all at our world-class historic site and brand-new Center for History Education.
The Fort is an unforgettable place to hold your training. We will supply a keynote speaker on a topic of your choice, personalized activities for all disciplines, and special activities and tours. You coordinate catering with an area restaurant or keep it simple with a “lunch on your own” option, where teachers can select a restaurant within walking distance.
$10 per person includes use of the Center for History Education for meeting space.
“Successfully engaging 115 professional educators across all content areas and grade levels is no easy feat, but the district-wide “SHTEAM” Day at Fort Ligonier did just that! Through historical presentations, artifacts, and re-enactments, teachers made connections in the areas of Science, History, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics to their content areas and classrooms. Fort Ligonier provided an engaging and meaningful way to deliver quality professional development!”
~Dr. Christine Oldham
Superintendent, Ligonier Valley School District
Contact us to plan your next staff development experience.