A 13-part series profiling a range of historic figures either born in or with significant ties to New York State. The profiles, corresponding teaching guide, and audio podcasts are available free for NYNPA members

This guide offers teachers several short-answer questions based on the content of each profile about the person or their pursuits. When available there are links to newspaper archives and, lastly, the guide includes one to three activities per profile called “Newspaper Tie-ins.” These activities suggest how to bring the lessons of these historical figures into the present and make them relevant to our lives. These lessons were created for students in grades 4-8 but can be modified to accommodate all students. Instructors are welcome to use these to create their own lessons.

February is Black History Month. Resources include a 4-part series of features, a teaching guide and audio podcasts for use during February. This year's profiles highlight the following individuals:

Amanda Foster (1807-1904) – co-founded the AME Zion Church in Tarrytown

James Campbell Matthews (1844-1930) – lawyer and judge; The first African American law school graduate in New York state.

Alvin Ailey (1931-1989) – dancer, director, choreographer, and activist who founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Aaliyah Dana Haughton (1979-2001) – singer and actress

Read, Write, Speak, Listen, View and Learn
A guide with 10 mini-lessons that invites teachers or parents to work with different newspaper sections and adapt activities to students’ needs and interests.

More: About this Guide, fillable-form PDF version