Alcatraz Uncovered

This program is offered in the fall and spring to local bay area schools.

Alcatraz Uncovered is only offered for 5th grade due to staffing this year.

Applications for the 2026–2027 Education Programs have closed.

 

Overview

Grade 5

Please see link at bottom of page for Alcatraz Uncovered introductory video.

 

 

Ranger talking to a group of students in Alcatraz.

NPS / Kirke Wrench

How can archeology deepen my understanding of a place?

Alcatraz Uncovered excites your students about history's mysteries by using Alcatraz Island as your archeological case study. Besides being a popular national park site, Alcatraz served as a military post from 1854 to 1933, a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963, the site of an American Indian fight for sovereignty from 1969 to 1971, nesting site for thousands of birds annually, and the subject of many Hollywood movies. Students will search for clues from each historic era and draw conclusions about daily lives and cultural perspectives and contemplate issues facing individuals within each of these time periods.

Alcatraz Uncovered uses the Understanding by Design framework, incorporates Common Core Standards and Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies. The program is framed by the essential question - How can archeology deepen my understanding of a place?

How to Apply

Step 1: Educators must complete the Reservation Form at the bottom of the page.

Step 2: Education Programs are only offered on Tuesdays from November through December and Tuesdays and Thursdays from January through May. Include 3 dates in your program application for when your class is available for a field trip.

This is a ranger led program for 5th grade. Park staff will follow up with application status after October 30, 2026.