Volunteer at The James Museum
Does art speak to you? Join a lifelong learning community of docents who inspire, educate, and make a difference every day for visitors of all ages at The James Museum. Our next docent training program begins in November of 2022 and runs through February 2023, with time off during the holidays. Day time sessions are offered on Wednesdays and night-time sessions are on Thursdays.
next docent class
Our next docent class is planned for late 2024. Please check back for more information or email [email protected].
docent program Information
Docents lead tours for groups of all ages, from K-12 students to adults. They introduce visitors to The James Museum’s collection, making works of art meaningful and accessible. Docent candidates of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome. No prior training in art history is required. Below are the benefits and requirements for joining the program.
docent program benefits & requirements
Educational & Social Enrichment
- Ongoing learning opportunities with the museum’s curatorial and education staff, as well as visiting artists and scholars
- Access to the museum’s private research library
- Annual appreciation events, social gatherings, and field trips
Amenities
- Free garage parking while on duty
- Volunteer lounge with lockers
Museum Membership
- After leading 5 tours, docents are awarded a free individual membership with an option to upgrade by paying the difference. Memberships remain valid and are renewed annually for all active volunteers.
Museum Admission Tickets
- At the end of every calendar year, docents are awarded museum admission tickets based on the number of service hours completed during the previous year.
Background Check
- Criminal background check (to be completed during training period)
One-time Fee
- One-time fee of $125 (covers training materials, background check, parking pass, ID badge, nametag, and other incidentals)
Technology
- Active e-mail account. This is our primary method for communicating important information.
- Access to a computer/wifi-enabled device. Internet access is needed to sign up for assignments through our cloud-based Volunteer Information Center
Training
- Complete training requirements and adhere to the museum’s policies and procedures
- Participate in ongoing training opportunities and docent meetings
Professionalism
- Demonstrate a cooperative, friendly, professional manner when dealing with museum visitors, staff, and fellow volunteers.
Tours
- Lead a minimum of two tours a month
Students must be enrolled in 9-12th grade for the 2022-2023 school year to apply. Application deadline is October 1. Art Council for the 2022-23 school year begins October 18.
teen art council
Our Teen Art Council is a student led leadership development program for high school students. It offers opportunities for teens to engage with art and culture while developing workplace and team building skills with their peers. Members meet bi-weekly at The James Museum to talk and think creatively about what inspires them. With support from museum staff, teens will work together to host their own teen programs and events.
Teen Art Council is a school year long commitment that meets at The James Museum from October-May.
TEEN council faq's
Council runs each school year beginning in October and ending in May.
Any St. Petersburg area high school students.
Teen Council meets bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 3:30-5:30pm during the months of October-May.
12 students are accepted into the program each school year.
Yes, there is potential to be renewed for the following school year after being accepted into the program. Museum staff will interview candidates for Teen Art Council each year.
Stacy Stockdale. Education Manager, Youth & Family Programs. 727-892-4200 ext. 1010 or [email protected]
