Olympia council approves $12,500 to build a student field-trip program at the OlyAHA Museum

Olympia students could be taking field trips to learn their own city's history at the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance's museum within a couple of years. The Olympia City Council approved $12,500 at its Oct. 6 meeting to help develop a student visitation program and curriculum at the Olympia AHA (OlyAHA) Museum and Visitor Center, The JOLT News reported.

Where the money goes. The money pays for extra staff hours so Olympia AHA can work with the Olympia School District on educational programming. That includes writing curriculum, coordinating with teachers, designing student programs and getting museum staff and materials ready to serve students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The program is targeted to launch in 2027.

Olympia AHA is working with Molly Wilmouth, the school district's Inspire Olympia liaison, on the program.

What students would learn. According to a city staff report cited by The JOLT, a locally focused curriculum would highlight diverse histories, including Indigenous communities, historically marginalized groups, immigration and migration, the arts and Olympia's evolving cultural identity.

Why the council said yes. Mayor Dontae Payne sponsored the referral. He said "investing in local cultural education can strengthen the city's broader goals around community connection, economic vitality, tourism, arts and culture, and civic participation."

About the Goal Fund. The money comes from the council's Goal Fund, which has an annual budget of $100,000 and is meant to respond to emerging issues, opportunities and community needs.