Congressman Steve Scalise visits Harry Hurst Middle School on behalf of NEH

Last week U.S. Congressman Steve Scalise visited the Harry Hurst Middle Library on behalf of the U.S. Congress and the National Endowment for Humanities.

As one of thousands of libraries around the country who received the “Picturing America” bookshelf, Hurst received 17 hardcover books and 20 pieces of laminated art reproductions with the theme of “We the People.”

Through the “Picturing America” initiative, the NEH aims to tell the story of America through its art.

The program seeks to introduce Americans to their artistic heritage and inspire them to become more informed citizens.

“America has a remarkable story, filled with riveting chapters and extraordinary heroes. Picturing America brings this story to life through forty compelling images,” said NEH Chairman Bruce Cole. “The Endowment is awarding this tremendous resource to schools and public libraries, so that students and citizens of all ages can gain a deeper understanding of American history in a direct and engaging new way.”

Students in Mrs. Baltazar’s language arts class, Mrs. Meacham’s American history class, Mr. Taube’s talented art class, and Ms. Noel Smith’s special education class attended a brief 45 minute reception in the library where the congressman read to the students and answered questions pertinent to government and American Literature.

Schools interested in the Picturing America initiative can learn more at http://picturingamerica.neh.gov/ .