Immerse

One of the flagship educational programs of the GRPM is Immerse. Annually this program serves approximately 52 classes, representing a mix of public, private and charter schools. The GRPM Immerse program provides a week-long learning experience for schools from the greater Grand Rapids region. The experience is crafted and led by the visiting teachers, leveraging exhibition spaces, Museum artifacts and various enrichment programs. All together, the GRPM Immerse experience provides students with local, hands-on examples of history, science and culture. These experiences connect them deeply to their curriculum and community.

Immerse teachers use the Museum as their classroom and challenge students to think critically and creatively about how they view the world and their place in it. The opportunities to achieve customized learning objectives are endless. Teachers can select from a wide range of guided education programs, planetarium presentations and other resources, all aligned with grade-level curriculum standards.

Teacher professional development is an important aspect of Immerse. Teachers are trained and supported through a rigorous orientation program in the summer where they learn how to leverage exhibit spaces, primary sources and objects in their instruction and receive access to a shared resource folder with materials to support this work. Teachers also receive individualized planning support from GRPM Education staff. Support is available and resources are also shared throughout the school year.

There is a student-driven project requirement for participating Immerse teachers. Projects are presented in a year-end Education Showcase event. Project ideas across many subject areas have been explored, including: developing exhibit dioramas, researching artifacts, building websites, creating historical timelines and more.

Immerse Applications Now Open!

Applications are due Monday, May 20, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. 
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by Friday May 31. An in-person orientation will be on Wednesday June 12.

For questions, please reach out to Erin Koren, Director of Education at ekoren@grpm.org.

The 5-day Immerse program includes:

  • Admission to the Museum for five days. 
  • Access to all exhibits and add-on experiences that are included with general admission.
  • Dedicated classroom space and materials.
  • Professional development to learn techniques for integrating Museum resources into instruction.
  • Individualized planning with Museum Education staff to select guided education programs and planetarium presentations that will address classroom goals and objectives.
  • Access to exclusive curriculum materials.
  • Free admission to the Museum for students and families to attend the program’s culminating Education Showcase.

2022-23 Immerse Program Summary & Evaluation

Testimonials

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