Those who educate our children are faced with the constant challenge of wading through the noise of the world when they are finding lessons that make an impact. At the Billy Graham Library, we have made that process a little bit easier through our Educational Lesson Plans. Ranging from history to civics to communications and technology, students from elementary through high school can learn how Billy Graham’s ministry impacted millions across the globe.

We invite you to bring your students to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte and relive the remarkable story of a farm boy who became the pastor to presidents and a man who proclaimed Good News around the world. Our student resources include downloadable lesson plans for teachers to use before, during, and after each visit, as well as interactive elements and take-home pieces for student groups. Each standardized lesson plan features suggested activities, discussion questions, and original source material for an amplified learning experience.

In addition to our traditional educational resources, the Billy Graham Library recently established an innovative full-day STEAM field trip for students K-12, combining critical thinking, teamwork and problem solving—while weaving in spiritual lessons along the way.

Students begin their day with an interactive science project. As they work in groups, they learn more about who Billy Graham was as a kid:

• What was Billy’s favorite sport? (Baseball)
• Why is the Library in the shape of a barn? (His parents were dairy farmers)
• What chores did Billy and his brother Melvin do before and after school? (They milked 20 cows and shoveled manure.)
• How much did a quart of milk cost in 1930?  (a nickel)
• Did he grow up dreaming of becoming a preacher? (No. He wanted to be a professional baseball player.)

In addition to taking the hour-and-a-half The Journey of Faith tour, students, teachers, and parents can explore the life and ministry of Billy Graham while engaged in hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities. All lesson plans are grade-specific and meet both North Carolina and federal educational standards. 

Are you a teacher or parent looking for a way to engage your students while nurturing their faith? The STEAM program and Educational Resources are free (STEAM program participants must purchase lunch in the on-site Graham Brothers Dairy Bar). Groups must schedule in advance by contacting the Library at LibraryStudents@bgea.org or 704-401-3200.