The Michigan History Foundation established the Michigan History Education Fund to support the award-winning education programs of the Michigan Historical Museum:

• The BIG History Lesson, a weeklong program that turns the museum into an exciting, interdisciplinary classroom
• History Excursions, education programs that offer teachers and students customized museum experiences.

Both programs use hands-on activities and follow the standards for Michigan's fourth-grade social studies curriculum.

Add your support to ours!

Find out how your personal, business or corporate contribution can inspire children to build a better tomorrow by learning about Michigan's past. Become a sponsor of the Michigan History Education Fund. Click on "Sponsorship Opportunities" in the column at right.

Key to all successful instructional programs are the dedicated teachers who inspire their students and instill in them a passion for learning—the Michigan History Foundation is committed to giving these outstanding teachers the recognition they deserve.

The Odyssey Awards also allows the Foundation to enrich the potential of teachers throughout the state and their students by sharing award winners' proven techniques for making Michigan history a fun and educational learning experience.

Each year, the Michigan History Foundation presents the Odyssey Award to up to three educators who excel at teaching Michigan history. Each honoree is invited to attend the Jingle Ball to receive a plaque made of Michigan agate and a $500 check. The 2010 ball takes place on November 20, at the Michigan Library and Historical Center in Lansing. To find out more about this gala event, click on the link in the column at right.

Who is eligible?

All Michigan educators are eligible for the Odyssey Award.

Nominees for the Odyssey Awards must demonstrate:

• A depth of knowledge about Michigan history
• Leadership regarding Michigan history in their local school district and/or in their local community
• Creativity in their approach to teaching Michigan history

Award recipients are asked to share their ideas and expertise with other teachers through the Michigan Historical Center's web site.

How to apply:

• Download the official Odyssey Awards nomination form. (Nominations for 2009 are closed; look for the 2010 nomination form to be posted here.)

For more information about the Michigan History Education Fund or the Odyssey Awards, contact:

Michigan History Foundation
P.O. Box 17035
Lansing, MI 48901
Voice: (517) 373-2565
Fax: (517) 241-3647
E-mail: mhfoundation@michigan.gov

Updated 11/24/2009