SALEM, Mass. - Designed for middle and high school teachers of history and economics, a five-day Summer Institute class presented by the Essex National Heritage Commission at Salem State College will focus on the Caribbean economic connection to New England.

Led by Salem State College professor Brad Austin, the institute will examine a link to the Caribbean that generated significant wealth for New England. It will be held at various sites in the Salem area and the Federal Reserve of Boston from July 21 to 25. Staff from the National Park Service, Salem Maritime Historic Site, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston will also participate.

The course is being offered with three graduate credits for $685 or with 52.5 PDP credits for $375. Scholarships are available.

For more information, call the Essex National Heritage Commission or visit www.essexheritage.org.