Here's what a recent group of 4th graders said about the Port tour: "When I grow up, I might want to be a longshore worker. I told my family a lot about the Port." "I really loved the field trip. All of the boats and equipment were awesome." "I like how you set up for the container to be put down in front of the bus!"

The Port of Tacoma's unique educational program introduces elementary school students to the concepts of trade and economics, as well as how Port activities impact the Pierce County community.

Designed with the Tacoma School District, the program is tailored for 3rd graders but has been successfully used in 2nd and 4th grade classrooms. With three mix-and-match elements, the curriculum is easy to integrate into lessons.

Teacher Resource Handbook (View online | Download PDF, 1.2 mb)
Use these in-class activities and worksheets to prepare your students for a visit to the Port of Tacoma. The activities can be used individually or along with the Port's third grade reading book, Gateway to the World.

Reading book: ‘Gateway to the World'
Copies of "Gateway of the World: The Story of Pierce County's Port" are available free of charge to Pierce County elementary schools and home school groups.

Tour the Port of Tacoma
Port staff serve as tour guides; schools provide the bus(es). Groups with 12 members or less might be able to take the tour in the Port's van. Tours must be booked in advance; capacity is limited. Tours are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Foss Seaport's Working Waterfront Maritime Museum
Consider scheduling a visit to the Foss Seaport's Working Waterfront Maritime Museum on the same day you tour the Port. Learn more about the museum's classroom field trips here. For more information, contact the museum at 253-272-2750.

For more information, to schedule a tour or request materials contact Hillary Hunt by e-mail or at 253-428-8662