School and Youth Programs
Guided experiences at the Cathedral enhance classroom curricula through a variety of entry points. Cathedral Educators lead students in programs that support Common Core Learning standards and adapt to the needs and interests of each group. Tours are typically an hour in length, and can be complemented by a one-hour arts workshop.
Tours
Medieval Journey
grades k-12Enter the exciting world of the Middle Ages, and appreciate the historic role cathedrals played as centers of culture, worship, art, and pilgrimage. Discover the ways in which the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine is similar to and different from a medieval cathedral.
$8 per student; NYC public schools - call for special rates.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL.3, SL.6, L.1, L.4, L.5, L.6
Geometry and Architecture
Grades K-8Discover geometric shapes and architectural principles within the Cathedral's design, including the traditional cross-shaped floor plan, Romanesque and Gothic arches, and patterns in stone and glass. Examine the importance of mathematical relationships that create stability and beauty throughout the building.
$8 per student; NYC public schools - call for special rates.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL.6, L.1, L.4, L.5, L.6; CCSS.Math.Practice.MP3, MP6
On Common Ground
Grades 4-12Decode the rich imagery in the Cathedral and learn to "read" the stories portrayed in the statues, stained glass, and architecture. Decode the rich imagery in the Cathedral and consider the variety of ways people use symbols, both today and throughout history.
$8 per student; NYC public schools - call for special rates.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL.3, SL.6, L.1, L.4, L.5, L.6
Vertical
Grades 7-12On this adventurous tour, climb more than 124 feet through spiral staircases to the top of the world's largest cathedral. Learn stories through stained glass windows and sculpture, and study the grand architecture of the Cathedral while standing on a buttress. The tour culminates with a great view of Manhattan.
$12 per student
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL.6, L.1, L.4, L.5, L.6
Madeleine L’Engle: Cathedral Connections
Grades 4-12Madeline L’Engle, long-time Cathedral librarian and author of A Wrinkle in Time, has inspired thousands of students through her books. On this tour, students will discuss L’Engle’s connections to the Cathedral, see sources of her inspiration, and visit physical locations referenced in her writings, including the library where she worked for 30 years.
8 per student; NYC public schools - call for special rates.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA. R.1, R.2, R.3, R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL.4, L.1, L.3, L.4
Arts Workshops
Medieval Arts
K-12Discover the arts of the Middle Ages and of cathedral building. Carve a block of limestone; create an illuminated letter; sculpt a clay gargoyle; weave on a loom; make a brass rubbing; design a stained glass collage.
$8 per student; NYC public schools - call for special rates.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy. CCRA.R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL6, L.1, L2, L6.
Geometry
K-8Merge shape and line to master the art of geometry. Employ drafting tools to devise a model elevation of the Cathedral; create symmetrical patterns through stained glass and mosaic collages; design rose windows or Celtic knots; and form an original origami peacock or church. Activities vary by age group.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7, SL1, SL2, SL6, L1, L6; CCSS.Math.Practice.MP5, MP6.
Architecture
Grades 4-12Experience the architectural process by employing the three architectural principles: stability, function, and beauty. With the Cathedral as inspiration, use found and recycled materials to design and build a model of an original cathedral.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R7, SL1, SL2, SL6, L1, L6; CCSS.Math.Practice.MP3, MP5, MP6.
On Common Ground
Grades 4-12Decode the rich imagery in the Cathedral and learn to "read" the stories portrayed in the statues, stained glass, and architecture.
$8 per student; NYC public schools - call for special rates.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7, SL.1, SL.2, SL.3, SL.6, L.1, L.4, L.5, L.6
Stone Carving
Grades K-12Talk with Artist in Residence Chris Pellettieri about his work and learn the variety of artistic and scientific ways in which stone is used in the Cathedral! In this two-hour experiential workshop, practice with specialized tools in stone and plaster, plan a piece of architecture, and assemble an arch. Chris will then demonstrate stone carving in a class project to take home.
CCSS. ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R1., R.7, SL1, SL2 & SL1; CCSS Math.Practice.MP1, MP3
Scheduling and Policies
There are a variety of ways to experience the Cathedral:
- One-Part Guided Tour: A one hour guided discussion for grades K-12 with 10 or more students.
- One Part Arts Workshop: A one hour guided arts workshop with hands on exploration of materials and processes for grades K-12 with 10-25 students.
- Two-Part Tour and Arts Workshop: A two-hour experience with guided discussion and arts workshop for grades K-12 with 10-50 students.
- Self-Guided Tour: a one-hour visit for groups of 10 or more people.
- Choir Sings: informal performance opportunities at the Cathedral. More information can be found here (PDF).
Scheduling a Program:
- Fill out our online form.
- Call: (212) 932-7347
- email: education@stjohndivine.org
Hours:
10am - 4pm, on the hour, every day except for Sunday.
Fees:
Guided Tour:
$8 per student, Vertical Tour $12 per student
Arts Workshop:
$8 per student
Two-Part Tour and Arts Workshops:
$12 per student, $20 for Vertical Tour and workshop
Self-Guided Tour:
$5 per student and $7 per adult, pre-registered
Please contact the Public Education Department at (212) 932-7347 or education@stjohndivine.org for NYC Public School rates.
Details:
All programs require a reservation and a minimum of 10 participants, two weeks in advance. For information and reservations, submit the Guided Group Visit Form or contact the Public Education Office at (212) 932-7347 or education@stjohndivine.org
One chaperone per 10 students is required and complementary. Additional chaperones are charged the same per student rate.
A non-refundable $60 fee is required in advance and goes toward the greater balance.
Please contact the Public Education Department for NYC Public School rates.
Cancellations:
Groups must give 48 hour’s notice or a cancellation fee will apply.
Pre & Post Visit Resources
Pre- and post-visit activities allow for deeper exploration of the Cathedral. Follow the links below to download any or all of these thematic activities:
Architecture (PDF)
Geometry (PDF)
Medieval Journey (PDF)
On Common Ground (PDF)
Click here for EdLab's "Seen in NY" video highlighting the Cathedral's guided student programs!
Book Your Visit Today!
Fill out our Guided Group Visit or Self-Guided Group Visit form to plan your trip to the Cathedral!
