COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS HELPING TO SERVE STUDENTS THROUGH VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY
July 28, 2022
BY MOCA STAFF
Our Meet Me @ MOCA program was created and implemented during the height of the pandemic to adapt to virtual schooling and provide access to critical arts education. The experience features live guided virtual tours led by MOCA educators and includes pre- and post-tour curriculum for teachers, along with engaging art kits for students to put their new knowledge into action.
During its first year, Meet Me @ MOCA reached more than 5,000 students. While many of the students attend schools locally, this use of virtual technology empowered students from areas outside of Northeast Florida to attend MOCA's tours and experience contemporary art from some of the leading artists of our time.
Within the community, the program did more than impact students, it provided partnerships with institutions such as Pine Castle, a local nonprofit organization that works to empower adults with intellectual and developmental differences through opportunities to learn, work, and connect. They are a leading disability services provider in Northeast Florida and their programs offer participants life skills training, job skills development, residential living, and opportunities for community service and social connection. It is their goal to empower participants to reach their highest level of independence. Made possible through a grant from Art Bridges, this incredible partnership resulted in hands-on work and training opportunities for Pine Castle participants, virtual field trip opportunities for 700 Duval County students, and the chance for even more community members to experience our recent exhibition State of the Art: Locate.
Images from Pine Castle
The amazing success of Meet Me @ MOCA has resulted in increased access to museum content that has enormous potential within our community and beyond. Because of the increased accessibility this program provides, MOCA has made the program permanent, increasing our reach into the community and access for schools both near and far.
The inaugural year of Meet Me @ MOCA was made possible through the generous support of the Jesse Ball DuPont Fund and Art Bridges. Additionally, Dr. Kip and Ann Strasma have generously funded 1,000 art kits each year for the coming three school years. These and many other community sponsors support MOCA's programs and mission, empowering us to provide vital access to the arts to the Jacksonville community and beyond.
Interested in learning how you can support MOCA programs or impact the educational opportunities of local students? Contact our Development Team at hellomoca@unf.edu.
