The Brooklyn Children’s Museum will expand access to free educational field trips for an estimated 42,000 students from Title I schools across the city during the 2026-27 school year, thanks to $420,000 in funding from the New York City Council.
The funding includes $350,000 from Council Speaker Julie Menin and Council Member Crystal Hudson to support free field trips citywide. Hudson also provided an additional $20,000 for schools in Council District 35, while Council Member Darlene Mealy contributed $50,000 for schools in Council District 41.
The program is designed to bring classroom learning into an interactive setting, giving students opportunities to explore new subjects, environments and ways of learning.
The program is intended to bring classroom learning to an interactive setting. File photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum
At Brooklyn Children’s Museum, students can participate in hands-on exhibits and programs focused on visual arts, STEM, world cultures and civic engagement. The museum’s educational offerings are designed to align with New York State’s learning standards while complementing classroom instruction.
By eliminating the cost of admission for participating schools, the initiative aims to make cultural and educational experiences more accessible throughout the city.
Menin said that the program will not only boost grades, but “help students build real connections to their city’s cultural resources and develop important social skills.”
“Brooklyn Children’s Museum gives public school students direct access to STEM, cultural, and nature programming they might not otherwise experience,” she added. “I’m proud the Council can continue to help make that possible. Education works best when it’s fun and rooted in community, and this program delivers both for kids across the city.”
Hudson, who represents Council District 35, said the museum has played an important role in Brooklyn for more than a century.
Council Member Crystal Hudson contributed $20,000 for schools in District 35. File photo courtesy of John McCarten/NYC Council Media Unit
“As the nation’s first children’s museum, Brooklyn Children’s Museum has been a cornerstone of our community for more than 125 years, creating opportunities for young people to learn, explore, and discover,” Hudson said in a statement. “Field trips for students across my district — especially free school visits for Title I schools — ensure that more children have access to this incredible institution and can explore the many educational and cultural benefits it provides.”
Brooklyn Children’s Museum’s president and CEO, Atiba T. Edwards, added that removing financial barriers can half a lasting impact on students.
“For many students, a field trip is the first time they see themselves as an artist, a scientist, or as someone who belongs in a cultural institution,” Edwards said. “Now, the cost of a field trip will not stand between New York City students and valuable lifelong learning experiences.”
Interested Title I schools can request a free field trip request through the museum’s school visit program. Schools are encouraged to submit requests at least one month before their preferred visit date. Due to the volume of inquiries, responses may take up to 10 business days.