The museum is committed to offering a variety of educational programs that are designed to align with state curriculum standards. These programs are aimed at immersing students in African American history, art, and culture, with a particular focus on Maryland’s contributions. K-12 students are provided with an interactive exploration of topics such as slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and cultural achievements. Through guided and self-guided tours, students engage with historical narratives about everyday citizens and prominent leaders who shaped Maryland’s African American heritage.
The museum’s school programs feature several themed tours, including Paths to Freedom, which examines slavery from Maryland’s colonial period to the Civil War, and The Fight for Justice, which explores the struggles for equality during the Jim Crow era and Civil Rights Movement. A key feature of these programs is the opportunity for students to connect the lessons of the past with present-day social justice issues, fostering critical thinking and civic engagement. Interactive activities, such as scavenger hunts and studio art projects, complement the tours. These hands-on elements creatively deepen students’ engagement with rotating exhibitions.
With a mission to make learning accessible to all, the museum is dedicated to offering both in-person and online resources, including downloadable lesson plans. This inclusive approach ensures that students from diverse educational backgrounds can explore the museum’s 10,000-object collection and engage with Maryland’s rich African American heritage.
