Mayor Wu launches program granting free museum admission for BPS students

BPS Sundays, a program recently announced by Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, provides opportunities for free admission to the city’s museums, aquariums, and zoos for K-12 students.

Through the program, on the first and second Sunday of every month, Boston Public Schools students can gain free entry to the New England Aquarium, Museum of Science, Boston Children’s Museum, Franklin Park Zoo, Institute of Contemporary Art, and Museum of Fine Arts. Thus far, the program will continue until August 2024.

BPS Sundays is a part of Wu’s broader initiative to make Boston the most family-friendly city in the nation. Not only are the students granted free admission, but so are up to three of their family members.

Students will need to show their student ID to gain entry. They will also receive a personalized email each week before the month’s program, which can be used instead of their ID.

However, the mayor’s office warns that since slots fill up quickly on the weekend, families should pre-register and reserve tickets online.

During the announcement on Feb. 2, Wu was joined by Superintendent Mary Skipper and various leaders of Boston’s cultural institutions.

Many of the speakers shared objectives of providing access to these spaces for students who may not otherwise pursue them.

Carole Charnow, president and CEO of the Boston Children’s Museum, reinstated the importance of Boston students feeling a sense of belonging and ownership over places of learning.

“More families will be able to visit and experience the power of play and art, culture, science, live animals, and even, yes, sharks,” Charnow said.

Other speakers echoed similar sentiments.

“Closing the experience gap is the first step to closing the achievement gap,” Boston School Committee Chairwoman Jeri Robinson said.

In a written statement, the mayor’s office stated their goal is to continue students’ learning outside of the classroom environment.

“I hope this is a clear demonstration that we will do whatever it takes to be the very best city for families in this country,” Wu said.

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