Schools & Educators

Aligned with State and Common Core Standards, MMA's adaptable K-12 programs are designed to engage students in deep looking, critical thinking, and creative art making. School tours are FREE for all Monterey County schools!


Guided Curriculum-Based Tours

Image-focused, inquiry-based experiences that encourage students to look closely, share personal perspectives, and build connections.

Elements of Art    Grade level 1 - 5
An educational tour focused on understanding the Elements of Art. Students engage with artworks through group discussions, art analysis, and reflection, deepening their comprehension of color, form, line, shape, space, texture, and value. The tour showcases exhibitions of local and regional California artists from pre-1945 to present day. Includes an art-making activity to enhance hands-on and sensory learning.

Principles of Design    Grade level 6 - 12
An educational tour focused on understanding the Principles of Design. Students engage with artworks through group discussions, art analysis, and reflection. They will learn how elements like balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity are utilized in art to create visually compelling pieces. The tour showcases exhibitions of local and regional California artists from pre-1945 to present day. Includes a hands-on art-making activity, enabling students to apply their understanding of the Principles of Design.

School Visit Request Form

Please schedule your tour at least two weeks in advance.

Self-Guided Tours

Highlight Tour:    Grade level 6 - 12
Offers an in-depth experience of a select exhibition(s) with an in-gallery activity lesson. This tour allows educators the flexibility to expand or deliver their own lesson outside of the classroom or adopt an in-gallery activity to focus on a specific theme, media, artist(s), or historical/theoretical context. 

Self-Guided Tour:    Grade level 6 - 12
Educators may choose to lead a self-guided tour of the available galleries. We do request you to let us know in advance.

The Monterey Museum of Art works to provide an accessible experience for all our visitors. If your group has special needs, we want to work with you to give your students the best experience we can offer for each of our education programs. 

Guidelines for All School Visits


Creative Pathways High School Mentorship Program

A free mentorship program for students interested in pursuing academic or occupational careers in the arts.


Educator Open House

Educators are invited to the Museum for music, activities, talks and tours, and free art education resources. Join us on Saturday, March 16 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm for our next Open House.


To learn more about our programs, please contact us directly at education@montereyart.org.

Support for bus funding provided in part by Monterey Peninsula Volunteer Services.