George L. Carter Railroad Museum

The George L. Carter Railroad Museum  will expand experiential learning opportunities that connect regional railroad history with environmental science. Project activities include installing the Rails & Roots Junction outdoor kiosk, developing interpretive panels that explore the connections between railroad history and environmental impacts, convening teacher listening sessions and advisory groups to guide curriculum design, and creating at least six new field trip activities aligned with state standards. The primary beneficiaries will be elementary school field trip participants. Additional beneficiaries include the museum’s approximately 8,000 annual visitors and community members who will have free access to the outdoor learning space and interpretive kiosk. Project results will include new curriculum resources, expanded outdoor learning opportunities, and a permanent interpretive kiosk that connects railroad development with environmental systems. Project success will be measured through increases in field trip participation, teacher feedback on curriculum alignment and student engagement, and student learning assessments conducted before and after visits.