As part of Mayor Michelle Wu's State of the City address on Tuesday, she announced a new pilot program partnership between cultural institutions that will allow Boston Public School students and their family free access to the Children's Museum, Museum of Science and more.
(Photo courtesy Franklin Park Zoo)
In an experimental pilot program, starting in February 2024, on the first and second Sundays of each month, every BPS student and up to three family members will get free admission to the Boston Children’s Museum, the Franklin Park Zoo, the Institute of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, and the New England Aquarium.
Families will show a BPS school ID or an electronic pass to gain admission, said Wu. The city and institutions will track attendance and also develop plans to extend the pilot.
"We are thrilled to partner with the city and our colleagues to bring free cultural experiences to BPS students and their families,” said Tim Ritchie, president of the Museum of Science. “One of our highest priorities as an institution is creating a learning space that is inclusive, equitable, and accessible for all. The beauty of scientific discovery should not be a privilege, but rather a birthright for every child in the city. We cannot wait to welcome even more BPS families through our doors and to help spark their lifelong love of science.”
“At Franklin Park Zoo, classroom learning is truly brought to life in impactful ways that inspire caring and action on behalf of wildlife and strengthen STEM learning through exploration and fun,” said John Linehan, Zoo New England President and CEO. “We are excited to participate in Boston’s cultural access pilot to expand opportunities for Boston schoolchildren and their families.”