2026 – 2027 EDUCATION GUIDE
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Dear Educators, Welcome to the 2026 – 2027 Education Guide for the New Jersey Hall of Fame. As a new academic year begins, the NJHOF is excited to build on the momentum of last year. We welcomed thousands of students and educators, expanded our free professional development opportunities, and strengthened partnerships with schools across the state. We are grateful for the opportunity to support educators and look forward to continuing that work with all of you. At the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream, students explore the achievements of extraordinary Hall of Fame inductees through immersive exhibits and engaging experiences that connect history, STEM, the arts, literacy, career readiness, and social-emotional learning to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) in our 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, interactive, museum. New this year, we are proud to introduce the NJHOF Student Art Gallery Series, offering students the opportunity to create original artwork inspired by New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees and have selected pieces to be displayed in the museum. Beginning with our Inspired-by-Legends Art Gallery, we invite educators to bring these creative opportunities into their classrooms, showcase student talent, and experience the exhibitions firsthand through a field trip to the NJHOF. Our mission is to honor the Garden State’s most distinguished citizens for their lasting contributions to society. Through recognition and education, we celebrate New Jersey’s rich heritage while inspiring the next generation of leaders, innovators, and trailblazers to reach their full potential and shape a brighter future. Beyond the museum, NJHOF is committed to supporting educators year-round through free professional development, classroom resources, and innovative programming. Whether you’re planning a field trip, participating in professional learning, or bringing resources from the NJHOF into your classroom, we hope you’ll view us as a trusted educational partner. We look forward to welcoming you and your students during the 2026 – 2027 school year. Inspiration awaits!
Alexandra Genova Director, Educational Programs page | 3
WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR SUPPORTERS... The Foundation for the New Jersey Hall of Fame is thankful for the inspirational leadership of these Sponsors and Media Campaign Partners in helping to tell the story of New Jersey Greatness. LEAD SPONSOR Hackensack Meridian Health MAJOR SPONSORS PSEG/PSEG Foundation • The State of New Jersey • The Hess Foundation Inc. EXHIBIT SPONSORS PNC Financial Services – Fly Me to the Moon PSEG/PSEG Foundation – Everyday Heroes Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey – Karaoke Stage Hackensack Meridian Health – Late Night Jersey TV and Hall of Fame Heart Rates SPONSORS Acrisure • ADP Foundation • Altria • Applegreen • Audible • BGIA/NIP • Buckelew Family Foundation The Charles Edison Fund • The Clayton Family • Creamer Family Foundation Edison Innovation Foundation • Genova Burns, LLC • Group One, LLC • The Hampshire Foundation Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ • Inserra Supermarkets Inc. • Johnson & Johnson MCJ Amelior Foundation • The Munshine Group • NJEA • NJEA Consortium PNC Financial Services • Saddleback Real Estate Developers • Teachers' Insurance Plan The Taffet Family • Kim & Finn Wentworth • William E. Simon Family Foundation MEDIA SPONSORS 1010 WINS • Battleship New Jersey • BINJE • FOX5 • InsiderNJ Interstate Outdoors • Jersey Matters • The Jersey Sound • Meadowlands Chamber Montclair Local • NJParenting.com • NJ TRANSIT • NJEA Review • MY9NJ Newark Liberty International Airport • News 12 New Jersey New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission • NJ Advance Media (NJ.com) NJArts.net • NJ Family • New Jersey Monthly • New Jersey Stage NJ PBS • New Jersey Turnpike Authority • New Jersey 101.5 • New York Waterway NorthJersey.com • On New Jersey (ONNJ) • Patch • Port Authority of New York & New Jersey Remember Them with Steve Adubato & Jacqui Tricarico • TAPinto Telemundo/NBC-NY • Travel Plaza Media • United Airlines
The Foundation for the New Jersey Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
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ABOUT THE EXHIBITS... Hometown Tour
Immerse yourself in a unique, virtual reality experience! Embark on a journey in Jon Bon Jovi’s Chevelle, alongside New Jersey Hall of Famers. The ride will take you past the inductees’ cherished hometown spots, including their schools, childhood streets, favorite restaurants, and the first place they performed. Hear stories about how New Jersey and their hometowns inspired them and provided the environment for their success. You may even see your own neighborhood!
Fly Me to the Moon
Step into this one-of-a-kind cosmic experience and blast off on a thrilling journey through space and time, discovering some of Edison’s imaginative modifications to his Model T! The simulator takes you on an exciting voyage highlighting New Jersey’s significant contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Then, get up close to a real Model T owned by Edison himself! Sponsored by PNC Financial Services
The Great Hall
Wave your hand over one of 300+ inductees’ pictures on our enormous 25-foot interactive map of New Jersey and watch it come to life as it shares their inspirational stories. Then, head over to the Wall of Fame to hear excerpts of these legends’ induction speeches surrounded by a gorgeous, illumined art installation. Learn about their unique achievements, their representation of the state and region, and how their stories connect with New Jerseyans past, present, and future.
Everyday Heroes
Shine a light on the everyday people who make a difference in your life and celebrate the rich diversity of our state. By nominating a member of your community, you help share their story with future generations. Their inspiring achievements will be showcased to motivate others. Additionally, discover our Areté Scholarship Fund and NJEA Essay Contest, open to New Jersey students. Sponsored by PSEG/PSEG Foundation
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MORE ABOUT THE EXHIBITS... Karaoke Stage
Sing your heart out with New Jersey musical legends on our concert stage! Stand shoulder to shoulder next to a life-size hologram of a Hall of Famer as you perform a duet of one of their hits in this electrifying, oneof-a-kind experience! Sponsored by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Jersey Proud Theater
Step into our intimate theater and experience an unforgettable film celebrating the extraordinary lives of our New Jersey Hall of Famers. Through hilarious TV and movie clips, powerful musical performances, and moving speeches, you'll witness the challenges they've overcome and the triumphs that made them legends. This powerful, can’t-miss experience will leave you feeling inspired, uplifted, and filled with Jersey pride—ready to chase your own dreams.
Late Night Jersey TV
Ask our inductees (almost) anything on your own late-night talk show! Sit across an interview desk from a life-sized hologram of a Hall of Famer, and find out what drives them, how they came up with their famous songs, or whether or not they think it’s pork roll or Taylor Ham. Hear pearls of wisdom acquired through a lifetime of hard work and determination and learn how to achieve your own goals. Sponsored by Hackensack Meridian Health
Hall of Fame Heart Rates
Do you have nerves of steel like astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the ability to perform superhuman feats like sprinter and long jumper Carl Lewis, or possess the grace and agility of gymnast Laurie Hernandez? Compare your heart rate to Hall of Famers to see if you could walk a mile in their shoes. Then, learn about health resources and initiatives from Hackensack Meridian Health—New Jersey's largest, most comprehensive health network. Sponsored by Hackensack Meridian Health
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Students identify key details, share observations, and connect inductee stories to their own experiences. Reading Informational Text (RI Anchor 1, 2, 3) Speaking and Listening (SL Anchor 1, 4)
GRADE
Visual and Performing Arts (VPA Anchor 7, 9) Social Studies Practices (Civics, History, Economics, Geography)
Field trips focus on foundational leadership skills, community impact, and New Jersey history for students in grades 3 – 5. Your students will explore inspiring stories of local legends, engage with interactive exhibits that connect past achievements to today’s world, and reflect on how they can make a difference in their own communities. THOMAS EDISON | Fly Me to the Moon • Inventor whose perseverance changed daily life. 3-5-ETS1-1: 6.1.5.HistoryUP.6:
Define a simple design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process, or system. Compare the lives of individuals who shaped New Jersey.
JON BON JOVI | Late Night Jersey TV • Musician and philanthropist inspiring service and creativity. 1.3A.5.Pr5a: 6.1.5.CivicsPI.3:
Rehearse, evaluate, and refine artistic work. Explain how individuals and groups can work together to effect change.
GEORGE R.R. MARTIN | Hometown Tour • Author showing the power of imagination and storytelling. W.5.3: 6.1.5.HistoryCC.13:
Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences. Describe how culture shapes the way people live.
FRANKIE VALLI | Karaoke Stage • Iconic vocalist connecting music to NJ’s cultural history. 1.3A.5.Cr1a: 6.1.5.HistoryCC.16:
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Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work. Describe the contributions of individuals to culture.
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Students analyze information, discuss themes across exhibits, and compare inductee contributions in different fields.
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Reading Informational Text (RI Anchor 1, 2, 3) Speaking and Listening (SL Anchor 1, 4, 5)
GRADE
Visual and Performing Arts (VPA Anchor 7, 8, 9) Social Studies Practices (Civics, History, Economics, Geography)
Field trips highlight resilience, innovation, and leadership in sports, the arts, science, and civic life for students in grades 6 – 8. Your students will analyze how inductees overcame challenges, draw connections between historic achievements and current issues, and discuss the qualities that lead to lasting impact. BUZZ ALDRIN | Fly Me to the Moon • Apollo 11 astronaut and STEM advocate. MS-ETS1-1: 6.1.8.HistoryCC.9:
Define problems for engineering solutions. Evaluate the role of innovation in shaping society.
CONNIE CHUNG | Late Night Jersey TV • Journalist breaking barriers in news media. RI.7.2: 6.1.8.HistoryCC.12:
Determine central ideas of an informational text. Assess the contributions of diverse individuals.
JOETTA CLARK DIGGS | Hometown Tour • Olympic runner promoting health and determination. 6.1.8.CivicsPR.4: SL.8.4:
Explain the importance of leadership and perseverance. Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points.
WYCLEF JEAN | Karaoke Stage • Musician and humanitarian blending art and activism. 1.3A.8.Pr4a: 6.1.8.HistoryCC.12:
Select varied musical works to perform based on expressive intent. Assess the impact of cultural movements.
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Students evaluate inductee impact, synthesize ideas across disciplines, and articulate personal takeaways. Reading Informational Text (RI Anchor 1, 2, 3) Speaking and Listening (SL Anchor 1, 4, 6)
GRADE
Visual and Performing Arts (VPA Anchor 7, 8, 9, 11) Social Studies Practices (Civics, History, Economics, Geography)
Field trips emphasize advocacy, high-level achievement, and cultural leadership for students in grades 9 – 12. Your students will evaluate the influence of inductees on society, synthesize ideas across disciplines, and consider how their own skills and passions can shape the future. MARK KELLY | Fly Me to the Moon / Late Night Jersey TV • Astronaut and leader in STEM policy. HS-ETS1-2: SL.11-12.4:
Design solutions to complex real-world problems. Present information, findings, and evidence clearly.
DANNY DEVITO | Late Night Jersey TV • Actor and filmmaker whose work reflects NJ roots. 1.4.12.Re8a: 6.1.12.HistoryCC.16:
Analyze and interpret works of art for social and cultural meaning. Assess the influence of individuals on culture and history.
GLORIA GAYNOR | Hometown Tour • Music legend known for resilience and empowerment. 1.3A.12.Pr5a: 6.1.12.HistoryUP.6:
Refine artistic work based on self-reflection and feedback. Evaluate the contributions of diverse groups to cultural movements.
TONY ORLANDO | Karaoke Stage • Entertainer whose music spans generations. 1.3A.12.Cr1a: 6.1.12.HistoryCC.16:
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Synthesize and relate knowledge to create art. Assess the influence of individuals on culture and history.
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THE TRIP THAT’S EASY TO NAVIGATE! Set your GPS to: 1 American Dream Way East Rutherford, NJ 07073 Bus Drop-Off is under American Dream between Lot D (on your left) and Lot C (on your right). Here's a video: https://youtu.be/L_r4GDO8gBs
Disembark and enter the building. Give us a call at 551-310-1066 ext. 416. Hang tight—no need to move! A NJHOF staff member will greet you and escort you to the entrance of the museum.
You've Arrived! Have fun, take photos and lots of videos* of your visit to remember the experience, and share them with others! *May be restricted in certain exhibit areas; please follow any posted signage or staff directions.
Time to Walk from Bus to Museum:
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Physical Distance from Bus to Museum:
320 – 370 steps Yes! We actually counted!
NJ wit
JHOF Staff will walk th you the whole way.
SAMPLE ITINERARY Two-Hour Visit 10:00 am – 12:00 pm 9:45 am 9:45 – 10:00 am 10:00 – 10:20 am 10:20 – 10:30 am 10:30 – 10:40 am 10:40 – 11:00 am 11:00 – 11:20 am 11:20 – 11:40 am 11:40 am – 12:00 pm 12:00 pm
Arrival at Bus Drop-Off Walk to NJHOF Jersey Proud Theater Great Hall Everyday Heroes Karaoke Stage Late Night Jersey TV Fly Me to the Moon Hometown Tour Departure
Times are approximate and may vary by group size.
CHAPERONES Chaperones play a key role in creating a great experience for students! We require a minimum adult-to-student ratio of 1:7. During that time chaperones help by: • • • •
Supervising students and assisting to stay on schedule so everyone experiences each exhibit. Providing encouragement to students to interact with exhibits respectfully and thoughtfully. Supporting group discussions and help redirect attention if needed. Modeling positive engagement and enthusiasm.
We love educators! Remember that you always receive FREE general admission, so you can come check us out at any time!
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BEYOND FIELD TRIPS... We are more than just a place for field trips. We strive to be a resource for educators to earn professional development hours, expand their networks, and enhance the classroom experience.
Teachers' Insurance Plan
We are working to expand educational opportunities for schools across New Jersey. Through this partnership, NJHOF offers Educator Preview Days, Field Trip Passports, and Field Trip Grants to make immersive learning more accessible to students and educators. Learn more and apply for a field trip grant at: https://cloud.insurance.plymouthrock.com/fieldtripgrants
Montclair State University ADP Center for Learning Technologies
Join us for free professional development that connects innovative teaching strategies with New Jersey history, leadership, and career readiness—bringing the stories of New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees into the classroom. Learn more at: https://inside.montclair.edu/colleges-schools-research/education/studentresources/adp-center-learning-technologies
TeachRock
We are proud to partner with fellow nonprofit TeachRock (founded by rock legend and NJ Hall of Famer Stevie Van Zandt) to provide educators with free, NJSLS-aligned lessons connecting New Jersey musicians and NJHOF inductees to music, history, literacy, and SEL. Explore these ready-to-use classroom resources at: https://curriculum.teachrock.org/partners/new-jersey-hall-of-fame
National History Day New Jersey
National History Day New Jersey: The New Jersey Changemakers Award recognizes outstanding student scholarship exploring the lives, leadership, and lasting impact of influential New Jerseyans. The award encourages students to connect history with civic engagement and leadership. Learn more: https://www.wpunj.edu/coe/departments/professional-developmentschool-community-partnership/njhistory
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New Jersey Chapter of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (NJAATSP)
NJHOF and NJAATSP connect educators and students with the diverse stories and achievements of Hispanic and Latino New Jerseyans through professional development, curriculum resources, student programming, and cultural celebrations. Learn more: https://njaatsp.org
Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey
NJHOF and Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey connect girls with inspiring New Jersey role models through leadership-focused programs like the Women in Leadership Panel Discussion. These experiences build confidence, leadership skills, resilience, and a commitment to service while inspiring girls to become the next generation of leaders. Learn more: https://www.gsnnj.org
The Balancing Act
NJHOF serves as a featured recording location for The Balancing Act podcast, amplifying the voices and stories of inspiring New Jersey educators. Through engaging conversations on education, innovation, leadership, and career readiness, the partnership helps celebrate those shaping the future while inspiring the next generation of New Jersey leaders. Learn more: https://www.podthebalancingact.com
The NJEA Consortium
We are working together to connect educators with the diverse stories and experiences of remarkable New Jerseyans. Through Content Scholar Talks and Educator Design Days, we collaborate and help educators develop more inclusive, representative classroom experiences. We are helping students see themselves reflected in what they learn while building a deeper understanding and appreciation of the experiences of others. Learn more: https://learning.njea.org/consortium
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FOLLOW US!
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BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW! 551-310-1066 ext. 416 learning@njhof.org NJHOF.org/learn