"The student docents were helpful, engaging and did an outstanding job showing us
around. They asked our students thought-provoking questions about the
artwork that enhanced their experience."
- Elementary School Teacher, 2026 Exhibition
High school students bring Embracing Our Differences’ Sarasota outdoor exhibition to life as peer guides for visiting school groups. Using Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), docents invite elementary, middle, and high school students to look closely, share their ideas, listen to different perspectives, and connect the artwork to their own lives.
During the 2025–26 school year, 113 student docents supported 82 exhibition tours. Educators rated the contribution of student docents 4.3 out of 5.
When registering for an in-person exhibition field trip, select “Yes” when asked whether you would like a student docent. Student docents are automatically included with virtual field trips.
Schools participating in the in-person Make-A-Day Of It! program must request a student docent.
Being a docent gives high school students the chance to build confidence, practice public speaking, and help younger students engage with art and ideas. The Ringling Museum provides comprehensive docent training that prepares students to serve as guides and educators at the exhibition.
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"I recall back when I was in fourth grade, and I was one of the children who went on the field trip to Bayfront Park. I remember how grown-up the docents looked, and how confident and controlled they were when they spoke. I remember thinking how I could never be up in front of such a big crowd of kids and talk.
Now, it truly amazes me how I have filled the role I so admired at that age. I was shown that anything is possible. Being a docent at the Embracing Our Differences exhibit gifted me with confidence I never knew I had."
High School Docent
