In 2005, Deborah Gilpin became President & CEO and began the plans for the renovation and restoration of the Monroe School building, developing a strong support base among private individuals and corporations and providing the type of inspirational and diverse programming to make a wonder-filled museum. The Museum launched its Childhood Dreams Built By You capital campaign with a goal of raising $12.3 million prior to opening. In December of that year the Phoenix Family Museum officially changed its name to the Children’s Museum of Phoenix to more clearly convey the museum’s focus.

Renovation on the Monroe School began in 2006 and the Children’s Museum will open its doors to the public on June 14, 2008.

Prior to opening the permanent facility, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is fulfilling our mission to engage the minds, muscles, and imaginations of children today through our traveling exhibit program -- Museum Without Walls (MWW). Consisting of eight hands-on learning experiences, MWW visits schools and community events across the Valley. Over 275,000 participants have taken part in MWW traveling exhibits since 1998.