The Ticket to Ride program provides funding to defray the cost of travel for Maine schools wishing to visit Maine arts-based venues and events as part of a well-rounded curriculum. The main goal of the trip should be to take advantage of specific high-level arts offerings that are inaccessible without some travel. The goals of the trip should augment a specific curriculum, support student learning and be aligned with the Maine Learning Results Visual and/or Performing Arts standards. Applications are accepted throughout the year and funding will be made available approximately one month after they are submitted. As funds allow, schools may apply more than once a year as long as they are applying to attend a different event, bringing a different student population or have not expended their eligible amount.

Review Criteria

• 50% = Artistic excellence and artistic merit of the event(s) being attended
• 50% = Evidence that the funds will be used in a strategic way to promote the arts as part of a curriculum 

All applications and materials must be submitted using the online Application Portal. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to carefully review these details and call us with questions prior to beginning an application. Please give yourself plenty of time to write a strong application, so be sure to start the process early!

IMPORTANT: A school must apply through its school district. Applications must be conducted through the Superintendent’s offices. Communications and funds will go directly to the district to then be delivered to the applying school. The Maine Arts Commission will not contract directly with individual schools.

• Answer application questions (to be competed in the application portal):

1. Date of proposed trip
2. Total cost of transportation for proposed trip
3. Amount requested for proposed trip
4. Total number of students traveling
5. Admission cost per student
6. State of Maine Vendor Code for the applying school district (ten digits proceeded by VC (VC##########))
7. Arts venue(s) being visited (Max: 1,275 characters - about 175 words).
8. Event(s) being attended at the venue(s) (Max: 1,275 characters - about 175 words).
9. Grade level(s) of students traveling (Max: 1,275 characters - about 175 words).
10. Explain why you are taking this trip and how the learning experience addresses the Maine Visual and Performing Arts standards OR how the trip involves/integrates an arts experience and reflection activity for the students (Max: 1,275 characters - about 175 words). 

    https://www.maine.gov/doe/learning/content/arts/standards

Applications will be reviewed on a first-come-first served basis by Maine Arts Commission staff until all monies are dispersed. Applicants will be notified if they are funded within two weeks of their application.