Professional Development Program Presented to Pulaski County Educators

Program focused on how a flock of sheep helped win 'The Great War'

The Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum recently partnered with Pulaski County Public Schools to present a county-wide Professional Development In-service for fourth grade teachers. The January 5th workshop provided an overview of the life and legacy of Mrs. Wilson, focusing on her efforts as First Lady during World War I.

Joyce Covey, a retired Pulaski County School teacher and volunteer for the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, served as the presenter for the workshop. The workshop incorporated the museum’s educational book, "How the Sheep Helped Win the War," which details when President and Mrs. Wilson placed a flock of sheep on the lawn of the White House to free grounds laborers for wartime duties. The wool from the sheep, named “White House Wool,” was auctioned off raising nearly $100,000 for the American Red Cross.

The workshop provided an engaging framework for teachers to integrate the story into the classroom. The program’s teaching aids correlate with Virginia Standards of Learning and provide students with an introduction to World War I. Debbie Wilkerson, the Museum’s Education Coordinator, facilitated the workshop giving an overview of First Lady Mrs. Wilson and her place in history. Wytheville resident and retired educator, Betsy Ely, portrayed the First Lady, and shared information about her life in Wytheville and in the White House. This school year, each fourth-grade student in Pulaski County Schools will receive a copy of the museum’s educational book.

Mrs. Elinor Farmer, a member of the Pulaski Friends of the Library, organized funding for the Professional Development Day. Area businesses and organizations supporting the outreach program and book distribution included: Friends of the Pulaski County Library, Dublin High School Alumni Association, Count Pulaski DAR, Delta Kappa Gamma (Nu Chapter), Pulaski County Retired Teachers Association, The Coffee Grinder Restaurant, Dublin Lions Club, Carla Hallstead, Dr. Holly Welty Miller, Linda Grey (in honor of Dorothy Sanchez), Elinor Farmer, and Judith Barr.
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Additionally, the Nu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma provided refreshments for the teachers. Delta Kappa Gamma is an international teachers society promoting professional and personal growth of educators and excellence in education. Several members of Delta Kappa Gamma attended the workshop and encouraged Pulaski County teachers to join their organization and learn more about scholarship opportunities available.

The museum is currently expanding teacher and student programs. Please contact us about bringing this unique educational opportunity to your school!

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