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Education
plays a vital role at the Virginia Zoo. The Education Department
provides quality animal, plant and wildlife conservation programs
for children year round. Last year, we served over 35,000 people
through programs and special events. Over 15,000 of these patrons
participated in formal education programs. Many more are reached
through keeper demonstrations and tours scheduled throughout
the year. We generally serve two groups of people - school
groups/community groups and family programs. All
of the programs designed for school groups meet the Virginia
State Department Standards of Learning Objectives.
Let
the Virginia Zoo be your window to the world as you tour our
beautiful 53 acres of professionally landscaped grounds and
spacious animal exhibits. While observing over 400 species of
animals, you will discover how they have their own niche in
the animal kingdom and how they are an integral part of the
biome in which they live. To enhance the education opportunities
offered by your zoo visit, add an interactive education program
where you will meet live animals up close to learn exciting
and fun facts.
School
group programs include: live animal presentations for
grades K-12, outreach programs, uniquely designed programs for
children (such as docent for a day and multicultural programs),
teacher workshops and programs for pre-K, early childhood education.
Teacher workshops are offered each year. We have on site
facilitators for Project WET, Learning Tree, Wild, Aquatic Wild,
Flying Wild, Creating School Yard Habitats and more.
The
education department participates in the "Suitcase
for Survival" project, operated by the World Wildlife
Fund. This hands-on lesson plan, accompanied by confiscated
illegal wildlife trade items, focuses on teaching children about
the importance of conservation and wildlife. Staff also collaborated
with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to begin
an Oyster Conservation Project. The Zoo plans to further this
program by creating a living shoreline.
- Programs
for our members and other interested persons include:
Summer Safari Day Camp-
Cub Club (2-3 year olds)
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Kritter Kids (4-5 year olds)
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Spring Break Camp
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Camp out at the Zoo
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Scout Snooze - Badge in a Day
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Birthday Parties
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Horticulture Programs for disabled persons
- Programs
for school groups include:
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Preschool Hatchling
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K-3rd Grade Discovery Programs
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Animals in Art
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4th-6th Grade Discovery Programs
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7th -12th Grade Discovery Programs
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Custom Programs
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Suitcase for Survival
Many
other programs are available - click
here for enrollment information and registration
or call (757) 441-2374 ext. 229.
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