July 21, 2025

Henry Morrison Flagler Museum Expands Team and Launches Kids Summer Program

News Summary

The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum in Palm Beach has appointed three new staff members, enhancing its educational mission and community outreach. These changes align with the launch of the inaugural Kids Summer Program, designed for children aged 3-12, starting July 1. The program aims to engage kids in history through creative play and hands-on activities, reflecting the museum’s commitment to making history accessible and fun for families.

Palm Beach, FL – The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum has expanded its team with the appointment of three new employees, aimed at enhancing its educational mission and community outreach. These staffing changes coincide with the launch of the museum’s inaugural Kids Summer Program, which begins on July 1 and runs through August 30.

Jenna Hoogstra has been appointed as the museum’s new director of education. Hoogstra brings 15 years of educational experience to the role, having previously served as the lead fourth-grade teacher at Palm Beach Day Academy. In her new position, she will oversee various educational initiatives, including curriculum-based school programs, outreach partnerships, and family learning experiences. She is enthusiastic about sharing the history of the region with the community.

Joining Hoogstra is Charla Sramowicz, who takes on the role of events coordinator. Sramowicz comes from her previous job as the events manager at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, where she gained valuable experience in managing public programs and cultural events. In her new role, she will focus on creating innovative events that celebrate the Gilded Age and attract diverse audiences to the museum.

Lastly, Jacob Wike has been appointed as the museum’s new docent volunteer coordinator. Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, Wike most recently worked as the education coordinator at the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage in Beaufort, South Carolina. He holds a master’s degree in art history and a bachelor’s degree in education, and he aims to facilitate deeper connections for visitors with the museum’s history.

Amanda Skier, the CEO of the Flagler Museum, stated that the integration of these new hires will significantly enrich the museum’s community connections and enhance visitor experiences, making it a vibrant educational hub for Palm Beach.

The museum’s first Kids Summer Program is designed for children aged 3-12 and aims to engage them in history through creative play and hands-on activities. Scheduled activities will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., from Tuesday to Saturday, and are inspired by both the Gilded Age and the legacy of Henry Flagler. Highlights of the program include a wooden train set, a bridge-building workshop, scavenger hunts, story time, a model train display, and a railroad map challenge.

The Kids Summer Program is included with museum admission, which offers half-price rates for children through August 30. Ticket prices are set at $7 for children aged 6-12, free for kids aged 5 and under, and $28 for adults aged 13 and older. Museum members continue to enjoy free admission.

This program is designed not only to entertain but also to educate children about the local history and the impact of Henry Flagler through engaging crafts and activities. For further details on the summer program and museum offerings, interested parties can call 561-655-2833 or visit the museum’s website.