School Visits

SFCM allows groups or school classes to visit for an hour and a half at a time. The cost is $3.00 per child. Teachers and accompanying adults (1adult per 10 children) are admitted free for these visits. Additional adults and siblings pay $3.00.

Reservations are required to visit SFCM.*
When you arrive, a staff member will greet you and provide a brief orientation. It is your responsibility as the group leader to ensure that all members of the group use the museum in a sensible and purposeful way. Please remember that SFCM may be open to other visitors. Children are invited to explore the indoor and outdoor environments on their own under the supervision of an accompanying adult.

LEARNING AT SFCM
Make a preliminary visit to the museum before you come with your class. We have included ideas for before, during, and after your visit. You and your students are welcome to visit the museum store as part of your field trip.

Our programs and exhibits invite visitors to:

... Discover                  ... Play               ... Learn by doing!

In order to succeed in an ever-changing world, children need to develop habits of inquiry that will last a lifetime. We believe they learn best when they have fun, are self-motivated, and search for answers to questions they formulate for themselves.     

Children, like adults, have different ways of acquiring knowledge. SFCM provides a dynamic educational setting where all types of informal learning occur. Cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development can be observed within the museum's environment. Our primary goal is for children to understand themselves as learners and to have successful learning experiences. During your visit you can observe individual children and gain further clues to help meet their needs in the classroom.

The museum environment plays a very important role in the learning experience. Our staff has thought deeply about the quality and the instructive power of space. We have created a welcoming place that fosters exploration, communication, and social interaction. The arrangement of exhibits encourages choices, problem solving, and discovery. Please take time to reflect on how our environment affects your students' learning.

DURING YOUR VISIT
Documentation of your visit can enrich the museum learning experience. We encourage you to take photographs/ videos of your students as they:

* Problem solve
* Learn alone
* Try something new
* Examine objects
* Interact with others
* Explore

Interpretive exhibit handouts are available at the museum or can be sent to you upon request. Cameras and film are available at the museum shop, ask about discounts!!!

AFTER YOUR VISIT
Reflection is an important part of the learning process. It is a means by which we integrate experiences to expand our understanding of the world. We hope you and your class will reflect upon your visit. Use the photos you have taken to:
* Stimulate discussions or writing projects
* Initiate explorations in science or art
* Create a class history
* Enhance a student's portfolio
* Share with parents

GETTING HERE
School buses are not allowed on the museum's parking lot.  Please park on the north side of the building between the Bataan Memorial Military Museum and the Santa Fe Performing Arts Theater.

AVAILABLE BY RESERVATION ONLY:
* Climbing Wall: The technical climbing wall (grades three and above) can be opened for classes by special arrangement. Please call for more information.

OTHER INFORMATION:
* If you are unable to keep your reservation, please notify us immediately so that we may give another group the opportunity to visit. If your group arrives late, it is unlikely we will be able to extend your visit; the floor manager will work with you if possible. Food, drinks, and gum are not allowed in SFCM.