Digital Learning Experience FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the 9/11 Memorial & Museum Digital Learning Experience (previously Anniversary in the Schools). 

featured exhibition

Drawing Meaning: Trauma and Children’s Art after 9/11

Drawing Meaning: Trauma and Children’s Art After 9/11 examines how young artists from around the world used art to heal themselves and others as they expressed complex thoughts and feelings about the attacks.

A dynamic, geometric colored marker drawing. The left side contains a patchwork arrangement of American flags, some with zig-zag or irregular stripes. Next is a Twin Tower with a grid of windows, each featuring an abstract face in varying skin tones. On the right is another tower, aflame with zig-zagging lines. The windows in this tower are cracked.
featured exhibition

Faces of Ground Zero: Photographs by Joe McNally

Faces of Ground Zero: Photographs by Joe McNally is installed in the Museum’s North Tower Excavation. In the weeks following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, New York–based photographer Joe McNally captured people who reported to Ground Zero in the immediate aftermath of the attacks to aid in rescue, recovery, and relief efforts.

Hallway of the McNally installation, with text and photos visible along a cement wall
FAQ List

Where do I check in?

Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled start time at the group entrance, located near the southeast corner of the Museum Pavilion. For directions to group check-in and information on bus access, click here.

Can students bring food to the Museum?

Food, gum, or beverages other than water are not permitted inside the Museum. The Museum does not have lunchroom facilities for students.

Can we tour the Museum before or after the student program?

Your class may not enter the Museum before your designated start time. However, you may stay after your program to explore additional exhibits.

What should students bring?

Bring as little as possible to expedite your entry. All items are screened in x-ray machines and all visitors will be asked to pass through magnetometers. We provide all necessary materials for student programs. Click here for security screening details.

How long is a school program?

Guided school programs are a scheduled length of 90 minutes. Programs begin at 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., and 12:30 p.m.

What happens if we arrive late?

We cannot guarantee entry for late arrivals. Groups that arrive more than 30 minutes late will not receive a program and the visit will instead become self-guided.

What areas of the Museum will my students see during their program?

Each program begins in the Education Center and explores specific sections of the Museum as outlined in the program descriptions. If you would like to explore additional exhibits with students, allow extra time after your program.

What is the cost of a school visit?

Click here for full pricing information. For details regarding the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation grant, see below.

What schools are covered by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation grant?

All guided school programs are free for New York City primary and secondary schools serving grades 3 through 12. Limited funding is also available for schools in New York State (outside of New York City), New Jersey, and Connecticut. Self-guided visits are not supported by the grant.

How many students and chaperones can I bring to the grant-supported program?

What is the cancellation policy if my trip is grant-supported (i.e. free)?

Groups using grant funds must cancel within 14 days of their program. Schools that fail to adhere to this policy or fail to show up on the designated day of their trip risk suspension of their booking privileges.

Are colleges, afterschool programs, or enrichment programs eligible for grant funding?

These groups are not covered by the grant and should contact the Group Sales Department directly ([212] 266-5200 or groups@911memorial.org) to schedule a self-guided visit.

How many students can I bring for a school program?

The maximum group size is 30 students. Groups that arrive with more than 30 students will not receive a program.

How many chaperones should I bring?

We require one chaperone for every 10 students. Additional chaperones outside of this ratio must purchase tickets at full price, with exceptions for one-to-one aides supporting students with disabilities. We recommend no more than five chaperones per group.

Are there any materials I can use to prepare my students for our visit?

For lesson plans and helpful resources, visit the Students and Teachers and Resources sections.

What is the 9/11 Anniversary Digital Learning Experience?

The 9/11 Anniversary Digital Learning Experience used to be named “Anniversary in the Schools” – it’s the same program, just a different name. The program consists of two parts: a pre-recorded film that can be screened on-demand to accommodate all schedules and time zones; and a live chat with 9/11 Memorial & Museum Education staff.