The senior class of Peak Preparatory in Dallas recently had the honor of visiting the Sam Rayburn Library and Museum in Bonham, Texas.  Sam Rayburn was Speaker of the House through many of the major events of the 20th Century.

The students toured the museum, which contains many artifacts from Rayburn’s long congressional career.  The highlight was the ability to get a close look at the replica Speaker’s Office, containing original furnishings from Speaker Rayburn’s office in the U.S. Capitol. 

In addition to the museum tour, the students conducted research for an AP Government project using the Museum’s Congressional Record, the largest collection outside of the Library of Congress. 

Assigned the task of researching a specific significant date in history, the students learned that often the importance of a defining moment is not realized as it happens, but much later when its impact is felt.  In addition, the students gained valuable experience doing hands on research and presenting the results to their classmates. 

Rodney Pearson, one of the class instructors, stated the students “had a great time” touring the museum and “learned a great deal from the research exercise.”

The visit to the Rayburn Museum supports Peak Preparatory’s mission to give students the ability to reach their highest potential and inspire love of learning. 

Mr. Pearson believes the museum offers students those opportunities.  He plans on making the visit to Bonham an annual event and also developing trips for other grade levels.