There is a reason why Shelburne Museum welcomes thousands of school children each year—it is an incredibly rich resource for learning about American history, industry, culture, and art.

Shelburne Museum’s educational programs are all about close looking, critical thinking, and nurturing creativity and art appreciation. As you explore, you will discover how our collections become tools for learning, exploration, and self-expression. Educators who connect with Shelburne Museum will have the opportunity to expand their own understanding of the stories our collections have to tell and the ways that art and material culture can support standards-based classroom learning. We welcome public, private, and homeschool students in grades pre-K to 12 and beyond.

For inquiries, please contact our School and Youth Programs Educator, Sara Wolfson, at education@shelburnemuseum.org or (802) 985-0922.

Passport to Learning: School Program for Kindergarten–8th Grade

Available weekdays from May 15 – June 14, 2024

Homeschool Day #1: May 20, 2024 (registration is currently full)
Homeschool Day #2: May 28, 2024

Reimagined for 2024 – Passport to Learning offers school groups a variety of guided and self-guided workshops located across the Museum grounds. Students will rotate through a selection of interactive, hands-on workshops throughout the day. This standards-based, cross-curricular experience will enhance students’ understanding of social studies, art, and science.  

The Passport to Learning Program incorporates Thinking Routines developed by Harvard’s Project Zero to help students become deeper thinkers and more curious learners. The combination of guided and self-guided programs allows for choice and flexibility throughout the day to meet the needs and interests of your students.  

A comprehensive Educator’s Guide will be available in the coming months. This guide will include lessons and activities you may use in your classroom to extend your learning both before and after your visit to Shelburne Museum.  

Pricing: Free. Thanks to generous grant support, there is no cost for students, teachers, school staff, and parent/guardian chaperones to attend Passport to Learning in 2024. We also welcome inquiries about accessing limited funding available to help defray transportation costs. 

Spaces are limited so reserve early! To register and with questions, please contact School & Youth Programs Educator Sara Wolfson at education@shelburnemuseum.org or 802-985-0922.

Self-Guided Visits

Available during our open season from May 13 – October 18, 2024

If Passport to Learning doesn’t seem like the right fit, a self-guided visit could be a good option for your school, college, summer camp, or other educational or service organization. Self-guided visits allow you to explore the Museum at your own pace and visit the exhibits and buildings your group is most excited to see. Upon request, we can provide guidance and educational resources to help you make the most of your time at the Museum. 

Pricing: Admission fees are $5 per student. Teachers, school staff, and parent/guardian chaperones are admitted for free.

We are committed to making Shelburne Museum learning experiences accessible to all. Please reach out if you need assistance covering admission fees. We also welcome inquiries about accessing limited funding available to help defray transportation costs.

To register and with questions, please contact School & Youth Programs Educator Sara Wolfson at education@shelburnemuseum.org or 802-985-0922.