Title
Consideration of a Referral to Approve Funding to Support Development of Olympia School District (OSD) Student Visitation Program at the OlyAHA Museum
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the allocation of $12,500 in City Council Goal funding to support OlyAHA staff capacity needed to develop the OSD student visitation programming and curriculum.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the allocation of $12,500 in City Council Goal funding to support OlyAHA staff capacity needed to develop the OSD student visitation programming and curriculum.
Staff Contact:
Melissa McKee, Assistant to the City Council, City Manager’s Office, 360.753.8443
Presenter(s):
None - Referral Item
Background and Analysis:
The Olympia Arts and Heritage Alliance (OlyAHA) Museum and Visitor Center has welcomed over 7,000 visitors from 45 states and 19 countries, demonstrating its emerging role as a regional cultural and education resource. Roughly half of these visitors are local Olympia residents, showing strong community engagement.
There is currently no coordinated, fully developed school visitation program or curriculum connecting OSD students with the Museum. OlyAHA is working with OSD’s Inspire Olympia liaison, Molly Wilmouth, to begin developing such a program, with the goal of launching in 2027. Additional staff capacity is needed to develop curriculum, coordinate with educators, design programming, and prepare the Museum for serving K-12 students.
Supporting this request would strengthen the Museum’s role as a community resource and align with City goals relating to community connection, youth civic engagement, equity, arts and culture, and economic vitality.
Climate Analysis:
This issue does not have a direct impact on climate.
Equity Analysis:
A locally focused curriculum would elevate diverse histories, including indigenous communities, historically marginalized groups, immigration and migration, arts, and Olympia’s evolving cultural identity. The program would help students see themselves as participants in the community.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The Museum currently serves both local residents and visitors statewide and internationally. The proposed programming would deepen local engagement and support youth learning about their community.
Options:
1. Move to approve the allocation of $12,500 in City Council Goal funding to support OlyAHA staff capacity needed to develop the OSD student visitation programming and curriculum.
2. Do not approve the allocation of $12,500 in City Council Goal funding to support OlyAHA staff capacity needed to develop the OSD student visitation programming and curriculum.
3. Take other action.
Financial Impact:
City Council Goal Funds are an annual allocation of $100,000 that the City Council may use to support emerging issues, opportunities, or community needs that arise during the year. If approved, $12,500 in City Council Goal funds will be provided to support OlyAHA staff capacity needed to develop the OSD student visitation programming and curriculum.
Attachments:
Referral