Satellite is a free mobile arts learning program that brings teaching artists into K–12 classrooms in Title I schools across five districts in Pima County. Satellite engages youth in an art curriculum connected to the museum’s exhibition themes and artistic practices, with instruction provided in both English and Spanish. Students participating in the Satellite program receive an average of two hours of participatory arts education per workshop from one of the museum’s contracted teaching artists, typically serving approximately twenty-five students per session. The program emphasizes outreach to youth who would not otherwise receive regular classroom-based, arts-integrated instruction.

In 2025, the program reached 5,400 participants across 110 schools, provided bilingual programming to over 600 students, and distributed 5,000 Student and Family Passes, inviting students to visit the museum with their families free of charge.

In 2026, we implemented feedback from elementary school teachers who asked us to bring foundational art principles lesson plans to their students. Since then, teachers can choose between a contemporary art–based curriculum connected to MOCA’s exhibitions or a curriculum focused on the Elements of Art. The new option has been met with strong demand, and offering two lesson plans each semester now allows schools to schedule Satellite visits twice per season.

Read from teachers sharing about their experiences with Satellite program in their classrooms:

“This program it's be very valuable for my class because our school does not have an art class (only music). My students are very creative and excited about drawing and painting, but since I am not a trained art teacher and they do not get art in school regularly, they have been excited for this opportunity. Additionally, as a Title 1 school, visiting and interacting with museums is not an experience they get often” Robison Elementary School

“My 2nd grade class had a wonderful experience! We learned a different style of art that I have continued to work on with my students. We are a dual language class and I was so pleased with the instructor who spoke both Spanish and English. I have registered again because it was a wonderful experience and can’t wait for our next visit” Los Niños Elementary School

“These workshops are tailored to my student's needs. Presenters are knowledgeable, friendly and hands on. I look forward to these classes.” Dietz K-8 School

“The instructor had a nice rapport with the students, but also was good with behavior management/redirecting students. The students really enjoyed the lesson!” Ocotillo Learning Center

“MOCA is an incredible asset to our school community.  We currently do not have any visual arts classes at our school and by having MOCA visit, it enhances our student's knowledge and provides hands-on learning in the field of visual arts.” Lynn Urquides Elementary 

Generous support for this program is provided by Windgate Foundation.

We are scheduling school visits for this 2026, you can register here!

If you have any questions, please email Sirilak Rottler, Satellite Program Coordinator, at satellite@moca-tucson.org