Videoconference Our Characters

"Face to Face" Distance Learning Programs

Would you like to bring Mount Vernon to YOUR classroom?  Mount Vernon's "Face to Face" videoconferencing program allows students to speak to the people that lived with our nation's first president.  Each program will allow students a different perspective of George Washington, as he is viewed through the eyes of his family, friends, fellow revolutionaries, and slaves.

Once Upon A Time at Mount Vernon

As a young boy, Washington heard the same Aesop's Fables that are told to children today.  In a new take on classic stories, Mount Vernon's storytellers will bring the fables to Mount Vernon, teaching about animals, farming, and history- but always with a moral, of course. Our interactive stories are geared towards young children but will be enjoyed by all. Grades 1-2. Available Thursdays (preferred) and Fridays.

Sunup to Sundown: The Slave Life of Slammin' Joe

Students learn about the life of one of Washington's enslaved workers, Slammin' Joe, who dug ditches and only had time to visit his wife and children -- who worked in the fields -- during his one day off on Sunday. Slammin' Joe engages students in a dialogue about the practice of slavery in early America. All grades. Available Tuesdays and Thursdays; never available on Wednesdays.

Dr. Craik, Presidential Physician

Students will meet Dr. James Craik, George Washington's personal physician and good friend, and hear his tales from Mount Vernon. Dr. Craik will explain why the medicine and science that was available in the 18th century could not save Washington's life from a disease that is easily treatable today. Grades 4-12. Available Thursdays.

Mrs. Forbes, Washington Housekeeper

Students will meet Mrs. Forbes, the Washingtons' housekeeper, who followed the family day in and out at Mount Vernon, noting the Washingtons' grand adventures and the small details of their daily lives. In this session Mrs. Forbes shares stories of family life at Mount Vernon. Grades K-5. Available Thursdays.

Scheduling "Face to Face" Videoconferences

Each thirty-minute videoconference program is $100 and customized to the grade level of the participants. Mount Vernon uses IP and ISDN connections, and a 5-minute test run is required during the week before your program. All registration should be done through the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration. Once you arrive at the CILC website, search for "Mount Vernon" to find the program you desire. A CD-ROM about George Washington and Mount Vernon will be sent to teachers to assist with incorporating the performance into curriculum. Please contact our technology outreach specialist, Becca Milfeld, at bmilfeld@mountvernon.org or 703-799-8627 with questions.