Issuu

Dear Educators,

Welcome to the 2025 – 2026 New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) Education Guide. We are honored to partner with you in inspiring the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers. At the NJHOF at American Dream, your students will encounter the incredible stories of our state’s most remarkable citizens, individuals who have demonstrated the power of perseverance, creativity, and service.

Our in-person field trips connect directly to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, offering cross-curricular learning experiences in history, STEM, the arts, leadership, and social-emotional learning. Whether exploring our interactive exhibits, engaging in hands-on challenges, or connecting with the legacies of our inductees, your students will leave with a deeper understanding of what it means to achieve excellence and give back to the community.

The mission of the NJHOF 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.

We look forward to welcoming you and your students for an unforgettable visit!

Sincerely,

Alexandra Genova Director, Educational Programs

WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR SUPPORTERS...

The Foundation for the New Jersey Hall of Fame is thankful for the inspirational leadership of these Sponsors and Poster & 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

ABOUT THE EXHIBITS...

Fly Me to the Moon

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!

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!

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 stories and accomplishments of the everyday people in YOUR LIFE and celebrate the diverse fabric of our state. Share their stories with future guests to the NJHOF and hear about people who have had an impact on the lives of others that have visited our space. Plus, you can learn about our Areté Scholarship Fund and Essay Contest open to New Jersey students.

MORE ABOUT THE EXHIBITS...

Jersey Proud Theater

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!

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.

Boardwalk Shop

Late Night Jersey TV

Ask our inductees (almost) anything on your very 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.

Snap a free selfie with one of our Hall of Famers, then dive in for souvenirs that let you take the Jersey pride home. Flip through inspiring books, grab a locally made good, or pick up gifts that keep the vibe going long after your visit. Whether you're repping your favorite Hall of Famer or just want a piece of the experience, this is your spot to shop, smile, and celebrate all things Jersey.

3RD – 5TH

GRADES

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)

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: Define a simple design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process, or system.

6.1.5.HistoryUP.6: 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: Rehearse, evaluate, and refine artistic work.

6.1.5.CivicsPI.3: 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: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences.

6.1.5.HistoryCC.13: 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: Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.

6.1.5.HistoryCC.16: Describe the contributions of individuals to culture.

6TH – 8TH GRADES

Students analyze information, discuss themes across exhibits, and compare inductee contributions in different fields.

Reading Informational Text (RI Anchor 1, 2, 3)

Speaking and Listening (SL Anchor 1, 4, 5)

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: Define problems for engineering solutions.

6.1.8.HistoryCC.9: Evaluate the role of innovation in shaping society.

CONNIE CHUNG | Late Night Jersey TV • Journalist breaking barriers in news media.

RI.7.2: Determine central ideas of an informational text.

6.1.8.HistoryCC.12: Assess the contributions of diverse individuals.

JOETTA CLARK DIGGS | Hometown Tour • Olympic runner promoting health and determination.

6.1.8.CivicsPR.4: Explain the importance of leadership and perseverance.

SL.8.4: Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points.

WYCLEF JEAN | Karaoke Stage • Musician and humanitarian blending art and activism.

1.3A.8.Pr4a: Select varied musical works to perform based on expressive intent.

6.1.8.HistoryCC.12: Assess the impact of cultural movements.

9TH – 12TH GRADES

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)

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: Design solutions to complex real-world problems.

SL.11-12.4: Present information, findings, and evidence clearly.

DANNY DEVITO | Late Night Jersey TV • Actor and filmmaker whose work reflects NJ roots.

1.4.12.Re8a: Analyze and interpret works of art for social and cultural meaning. 6.1.12.HistoryCC.16: Assess the influence of individuals on culture and history.

GLORIA GAYNOR | Hometown Tour • Music legend known for resilience and empowerment.

1.3A.12.Pr5a: Refine artistic work based on self-reflection and feedback.

6.1.12.HistoryUP.6: Evaluate the contributions of diverse groups to cultural movements.

TONY ORLANDO | Karaoke Stage • Entertainer whose music spans generations.

1.3A.12.Cr1a: Synthesize and relate knowledge to create art.

6.1.12.HistoryCC.16: Assess the influence of individuals on culture and history.

GETTING HERE... IT’S

EASIER THAN YOU THINK!

Hey there...what’s your address?

Hi. We’re at: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

Great! Where does the bus drop us off?

Bus Drop-Off is located at the lower level of American Dream between Parking Decks C and D. You’ll pull over on the right-hand side.

Pro Tip: Use the GPS coordinates for the bus drop-off: 40.80973° N, 74.06741° W

OK...we’re here. Now where do we go?

Our staff person is coming down to greet you at your bus. They’ll escort you up to us in Court G, Level 3 (across from Oreo Café).

Lol! No, no! We’ve never lost a group! We know it’s a big facility—so we make it easy! See you soon!

This place is huge! I was afraid we'd get lost! ��

THANK YOU!!!!!! THAT WAS GREAT! ��

PLANNING YOUR TRIP...

Sample Itinerary:

120-Minute Visit: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm 9:45 am arrival at Bus Drop-Off and walk to NJHOF

Welcome to New Jersey Hall of Fame!

• Great Hall and Everyday Heroes – 20 minutes

• Karaoke Stage – 20 minutes

• NJ Proud Theater – 20 minutes

• Late Nate TV Studio – 20 minutes

• Fly Me to the Moon – 20 minutes

• Hometown Tour – 20 minutes

• Reflection & Departure

Times are approximate and may vary by group size.

Chaperones:

Chaperones play a key role in creating a great experience for students. Please share these guidelines before the trip:

Stay with your assigned group at all times. Assist in keeping students on schedule so everyone experiences each exhibit.

Encourage students to interact with exhibits respectfully and thoughtfully.

Support group discussions and help redirect attention if needed.

Model positive engagement and enthusiasm.

Photography and Videos:

We encourage teachers, chaperones, and students to take photos during their visit to remember the experience and share it with others.

Photography/recording may be restricted in certain exhibit areas; please follow any posted signage or staff directions.

“Storyteller” staff will guide you through the experience. Our “passports” have prompts to help with with learning!

BEYOND THE VISIT...

Field trips to the NJHOF at American Dream are just the beginning. Keep inspiring your students with programs that connect classroom learning to real-world role models.

Honor Your Everyday Heroes

Class Act: Homeroom Heroes

NJHOF is teaming up with Hall of Famers, NJHOF Board Members, and Everyday Heroes to teach students in their classrooms. These inspiring individuals will be sharing their knowledge and passions directly with students. Coming this school year, find this content on YouTube and Instagram!

Celebrate students, educators, and community members who make a difference through leadership, kindness, and service. We use the stories of our Hall of Famers to inspire the next generation of New Jersey Greats, but we know lots of regular, everyday people with inspirational stories. Nominate yours at njhalloffame.org/everyday-heroes to share their story with us!

Student Scholarship Opportunities

The Areté Scholarship Fund and NJEA Essay Contest challenge students to reflect on excellence, resilience, and leadership. Winners are honored at NJHOF events. Application info and eligibility requirements can be found at njhalloffame.org/learn. Be sure to share the link with your students!

Teacher Professional Development

NJHOF is a great place for engaging, NJSLS-aligned professional development sessions. We’ve teamed up with Montclair State University and TeachRock to create programs that provide strategies, resources, and inspiration for educators. Come in, be inspired...and earn your professional development credits!

The New Jersey Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.