STUDENTS FROM FAIRFIELD Elementary visited the Pearce Museum in January. The museum is located on Navarro College's campus. In January, third grade Fairfield elementary students visited the Pearce Museum on the campus of Navarro College to view the "Art Tales and Western Ways" program.

About 140 students toured the museum where volunteers and staff helped them experience the old west through tall tales and western art.

In addition, they were able to explore their artistic expression by making crafts reflecting the art in the museum - Native American bead necklaces and ceremonial masks.

The Pearce Museum offers a variety of curriculum driven programs for elementary and middle school groups. Each can be tailored to fit a group's age or interest level.

Programs available include:

—"Brushes & Battle" is intended for large groups of 70 or more students, or for classes with limited time. Students tour the Civil War and Western Art museums while docents highlight the major themes and events of the Civil War and unique works of art.

—"Major Engagements" is an in-depth look at the Civil War, its causes, the aftermath, major battles, generals, and the role Texas played in the war.

—"Art Tales & Western Ways" is where students learn to "read" and understand a work of art, as would a story. With each piece, students explore another chapter in western history.

To schedule a school group to visit the Pearce Museum, call (903) 875- 7596. The museum is open weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays, noon to 4 p.m. Regular admission fees apply.