Museum tours take students on a journey through the last century of American popular music.  From the early work of John Philip Sousa and his marching band to the rock and roll sound of the electric guitar, students learn about the innovations and people who shaped popular music.

While the Museum would like all local students experience this rich field trip, we understand that it’s not financially feasible for many low-income schools. Committed to finding ways to reach students whose daily life lacks the benefit of music, the Museum launched the Title One School Tour program.  This initiative was developed to engage children from economically disadvantaged families by bringing third grade students from Title 1 schools to the Museum at no charge.
 
By participating in the program, classes receive free bus transportation, a Museum tour, and a facilitator-led drum circle.  We welcome over 3,000 third graders each year for this valuable musical experience.  These are students who would otherwise not be able to participate in Museum programs.

To qualify for the program, you must meet all of the following criteria:

•    Your elementary school is designated as a Title 1 school by the U.S. Department of Education.
•    You teach third grade.
•    Your school is part of one of the following districts:

• Carlsbad
• Encinitas
• Escondido
• Fallbrook
• Oceanside
• San Marcos
• Vista

While we wish we could welcome all students to the Museum at no charge, our funding limits the number of students that can participate.  By limiting the program to third grade, we can impact a new group of students each year.  The selected districts are located in North San Diego County and are in close proximity to the Museum.  If you do not meet the above criteria you are still welcome to book a field trip with your own transportation and will receive a group admission rate.