Presidents' Day, originally known as Washington’s Birthday, falls on the third Monday in February. This year’s holiday is February 21, 2011. This national holiday is a great opportunity for teachers to incorporate American history into many different content areas. Presidents' Day was the first federal holiday to honor an American citizen, but the day is not just about George Washington. Teachers can use the holiday to educate students of this country’s rich heritage. Students can learn more about this historic holiday through these educational activities.

Presidential Timeline: Students can create their own sequential timeline of US presidents to present to the class. This will help them build research skills and is perfect for any grade level.

Presidential Poetry: Teachers can encourage their students to write Presidential themed poetry in unique poem styles, such as haiku and diamante.

President for a Day: Students are able to exercise their leadership skills by learning more about the daily activities of a US President. Students can also make a schedule for their one day as President or create a schedule based on a past president.

Presidents' Day Quiz: Test your Presidential knowledge with this and many other quizzes available online. Teachers can print out a quiz for each student.

Patriotic Crafts: Here are several easy ideas for colorful red, white, and blue themed arts and crafts that can decorate the classroom.

Presidential Powers: This activity not only helps students learn about the executive branch of government, it also helps them practice formal writing skills. They are given the opportunity to write a new section of the Constitution outlining a new duty of the President. This activity is suitable for grades 6-8 and 9-12.

Presidents' Day Skits: Students can dress up as a President, past or current, and be prepared to speak about them in front of the class!