The Cincinnati Art Museum is proud to offer dynamic school programs that bring students face-to-face with art and creativity. Through docent-guided tours and art making experiences directly influenced by the tour topics, students connect classroom learning with meaningful experiences that foster curiosity and imagination.

The Weyand High School Program provides CPS high school students with an unforgettable day at the museum, completely free of charge! This program allows each participating school to visit twice per year, once during the fall semester and again during the spring. Students go on a docent-guided tour for one hour, viewing a special exhibition, and after, participate in an art-making experience inspired by the principles and ideas discussed during the tour. Lunch and transportation are paid for by the museum, in addition to the art-making materials, and students receive a sketchbook and pencil set to take home with them.

This fall, students will have the opportunity to experience Recall. Reframe. Respond. The Art of Paul Scott (October 10, 2025–January 4, 2026), an exhibition that reimagines ceramic traditions while exploring history, politics, and culture, or What, Me Worry? The Art and Humor of MAD Magazine (November 21, 2025–March 1, 2026), celebrating decades of satire and parody that shaped American humor.

The Koetters CPS 4th Grade Program provides 4th-grade elementary art teachers and students in CPS with an art-making program tailored to their grade level. This program is free of charge, with a designated space for packed lunches and transportation paid for by the museum. Each year, students focus on the Cincinnati Collection, a unique set of galleries spotlighting Cincinnati history and artists. This ties in perfectly with the Ohio history unit covered in the 4th-grade curriculum, making 4th-grade students an ideal group to share this opportunity with, as they can make connections to this experience in and out of the classroom. 

During each visit, students go on a docent-guided tour for one hour, then meet with CAM staff to engage in an art-making experience that ties in principles and ideas discussed during the tour. In years past, we have focused on a variety of ceramic projects, landscapes, and portraits. This year, students will explore sculpture and create mobiles inspired by Alexander Calder.

We would love your help in growing these programs. Please contact Alexa Ramirez, Manager of School Partnerships ([email protected]), if you are a Cincinnati Public Schools teacher interested in scheduling or have any questions.