Fifteen teachers from Independence, Missouri Public Schools participated in this exciting grant which enabled them to upgrade their technology skills, research the Truman Library archives, learn about Harry S. Truman and his presidency, design curriculum based on original Truman Library sources, and develop skills in story boarding to prepare for the production of a CD-ROM.

It was an incredible experience with a great deal of hard work and time involved. The dedication of this group was amazing and I appreciate all their efforts. One teacher even completed her unit while recovering from kidney-transplant surgery.

Each teacher in the project chose to do a unit based on personal interest and that of the students in his/her class. The units offer a wide range of teaching material and information for student research. All grade levels are addressed and the units focus on the Missouri Show-Me Standards.

Teachers also used their new skills with their students. Some classes did research using documents. A senior high group actually researched at the Truman Library archives. First graders wrote and performed a play called "Little Harry Truman," telling stories about Truman's early years in Independence. Other students worked with the reproduction archival materials in the Truman Footlocker which is available for sale or rent from the Truman Library. Fourth graders made elaborate time lines using research from photocopies of primary sources.

I would like to extend my extra thanks to my secretary, Kay Cox, for all her work in scanning and revising material, and to Marge Erickson for proofreading the entire CD. Special thanks goes to Gary Krohm, Krohm International Ltd., for his hard work, patience, and skill in getting the material coded and formatted for CD production.

The Truman Library and Museum staff members were most helpful and pleasant. We would like to specially thank Larry Hackman, Director of the Truman Library; Ray Geselbracht, supervising archivist; Randy Sowell, archivist; Liz Safley, librarian; Pat Dorsey, museum specialist; Rita Klepac, special programs coordinator; Pauline Testerman, audio-visual archivist; Mark Adams, education director; and the Library guards. This project would not have existed without their advice, expertise, and assistance.

We hope you enjoy this CD. They are sold AT COST, our district does not make a profit. You may contact us for information on preparing a technology grant or to order the CD or comment on the materials included.

Kathleen Vest
Project Director
816-521-2700
Fax: 816-521-2999
E-mail: kvest@indep.k12.mo.us
Internet site: www.whistlestop.org

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