As a result of its Smithsonian Affiliation, the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures has the opportunity to infuse local schools and districts with bilingual early learning resources provided by the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC). The SEEC aims to advance educational opportunities for all children by sharing their expertise on a national level, furthering the Smithsonian Institution’s education mandate.
The program encourages affiliate museums to re-create Smithsonian-designed materials and share them with schools and learning centers to provide easy ways to help kids build skills in literacy, creativity, and communication.
The ITC will distribute to participating schools copies of an SEEC-produced 16-page coloring book highlighting women’s historical achievements and “Look, Talk and Play” activity cards that enrich outings to museums and galleries.
“Making educational resources accessible to the community is a major part of the institute’s mission,” said ITC educator Liz Lopez. “As an affiliate, the institute is a conduit for the Smithsonian to reach a bilingual community in San Antonio – it’s a fantastic opportunity to get top-caliber materials into the hands of parents, teachers, and students.”
The ITC has been a Smithsonian Affiliate since 2010. Affiliate status grants the Institute access to the Smithsonian’s artifacts, educational materials, performing arts programs, expert speakers, teacher workshops, and resources to complement and broaden exhibitions.