“The preservation of [our] irreplaceable heritage is in the public interest so that its vital legacy of cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, economic, and energy benefits will be maintained and enriched for future generations of Americans”
(Title 1, Section 1(b)(4) of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended)
To preserve our nation’s heritage and provide access to its rich education benefits, the National Park Service provides educational resources and guidance for professionals in historic preservation and related fields, educators and teachers, students, and interested members of the general public.
Education for Preservation Professionals
The National Center for Preservation Technology and Training develops educational opportunities for professionals, including seminars and workshops on topics like green building science and non-destructive archaeology.
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Teach and Engage Youth
Teaching with Historic Places program publishes over 150 free, ready-to-use lesson plans about real historic sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Discover how historic places can enliven school subjects with both original and primary source readings, historic photographs, maps, suggested activities, and more. This program also features a professional development content for educators, historic site directors, preservationists, and others interested in using historic places to teach.
Archeology for Teachers and Kids directs educators and students to formal and informal learning activities. Archeology for Kids offers Explore Archeology for Kids, Latino Archeology for Kids, and more for kids of all ages to learn what archeology is and what archeologists do. Archeology for Teachers includes lesson plans, professional development opportunities, and much more. The Junior Archeologist booklet offers adults and kids a way to learn together about archeology.
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Discover Preserved Places
The Discover Our Shared Heritage Travel Itineraries series website features 60 free travel guides with detailed information about heritage destinations and historic sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. All 50 states, U.S. Insular Areas, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia are represented in the series. Each itinerary includes descriptions of each historic place and its importance in American history, thematic essays, historic site contact information, interactive maps, and links to related preservation and tourism web sites.
Learn to Preserve
The National Park Services offers written guidance, training, webinars, and more for people interested in becoming preservation hobbyists or professionals. Visit the Learn How to Be a Preservationist page to see a complete list of resources.
Last updated: March 9, 2022