LOS ALTOS, CA (March 14, 2023) – Los Altos History Museum is seeking applicants for its 2023-24 Teen Docent Program. Open to any student enrolled in a local high school for the upcoming academic year, the program offers teens the opportunity to work alongside museum professionals and interact with community members while experiencing a behind-the-scenes look at museum magic in action. The Museum will accept up to 20 students, and applications must be completed through its website by April 14, 2023.
“Over the last five years, the Museum’s Teen Docent program has grown in popularity and impact. We’ve had students stick with the program throughout high school, and it has made a real difference in their personal, professional, and academic growth,” said Dr. Elisabeth Ward, executive director of the Museum. “Participants gain skills such as communication and leadership that can be applied to any education or work environment. Plus they have fun working with teens from throughout the area while learning about local history,” added Ward.
Applicants to the program may be invited in for short, simple interviews on April 21st, and those who are accepted will be invited to a welcome reception on May 7th. Intensive Docent training will take place during June or July, at a week mutually convenient for the majority of accepted students, from 10am to 2pm daily. Teen Docents are required to work a minimum of two hours per month at the Museum greeting visitors and leading tours, and attend most, if not all, of the monthly 2-hour Teen Docent behind-the-scenes workshops.
The Museum’s Teen Docent Program began in 2019, and continued through the pandemic, with modifications. The program is part of the Museum’s vision to be the premier local center for intergenerational and intercultural connections.
For information and to apply to the program, visit losaltoshistory.org/TeenDocentProg.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the J. Gilbert Smith House historic farmhouse, built in 1905. In 2001, the Los Altos History Museum opened its modern building next door, which houses the Museum’s collections, permanent and changing exhibits, store and administrative offices. The Museum and its grounds are available for rent during evenings and weekends. Its collections are owned by the City of Los Altos and are managed by an independent nonprofit organization, whose staff and volunteers are responsible for all programs and operations.
The Museum and J. Gilbert Smith House are open Thursday through Sunday, from noon-4pm. Admission is free. The gardens, outdoor agricultural exhibits and picnic area are accessible beyond Museum hours. For more information, visit: www.losaltoshistory.org, email hello@losaltoshistory.org, or phone 650.948.9427 x14.
Media Contact: Marketing@losaltoshistory.org
Los Altos History Museum: Elisabeth I. Ward, 650.948.9427 x10, eward@losaltoshistory.org
