Brookfield Zoo, a renowned zoological park located in Brookfield, Illinois, offers a range of free opportunities for teachers, making it an attractive destination for educators looking to enhance their teaching and provide engaging learning experiences for their students. From free admission to professional development programs, Brookfield Zoo has a lot to offer teachers.
Free Admission for Illinois Educators
One of the primary benefits for teachers at Brookfield Zoo is the free admission policy. Illinois primary and secondary educators can enjoy free parking and admission to the zoo, simply by presenting a valid educator ID. This allows teachers to visit the zoo with their students or for personal professional development without the burden of admission fees.
Teaching Safari Program
Brookfield Zoo’s Teaching Safari program is a comprehensive professional learning opportunity for K-12 educators. This free program combines on-site exploration of the zoo’s natural wonders and animal habitats with virtual sessions, earning participants 35 free professional development hours or 2 graduate credit hours from Dominican University.
The program is structured around four full-day sessions at the zoo, where teachers engage in hands-on activities, attend presentations by zoo experts, and learn strategies for incorporating the zoo’s resources into their classroom curriculum. Additionally, two virtual sessions are included, providing teachers with the opportunity to further explore the topics and collaborate with their peers.
Free Educational Resources
Brookfield Zoo recognizes the importance of providing teachers with high-quality educational resources to support their teaching efforts. The zoo offers a collection of free educational materials, including videos and downloadable content, that can be used in the classroom to enhance students’ understanding of the natural world and conservation efforts.
These resources cover a wide range of topics, from animal behavior and habitats to environmental sustainability and conservation. Teachers can easily access and incorporate these materials into their lesson plans, ensuring their students receive engaging and informative learning experiences.
Field Trip Enrichment Session
Brookfield Zoo also offers a free, one-hour online session designed to help teachers prepare for their field trip experiences. During this session, teachers can learn strategies and receive downloadable student activities to enhance the overall field trip experience for their students.
By participating in this enrichment session, teachers can better plan and execute their zoo field trips, ensuring their students get the most out of their visit and aligning the experience with their educational goals.
Partnerships and Discounts
In addition to the free offerings, Brookfield Zoo also collaborates with various educational institutions and programs to provide additional benefits for teachers.
For instance, members of the Brookfield Zoo Chicago Teacher Network receive a 20% discount on Web+ Classes in the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) Master’s Program. This program focuses on education, sustainability, and local conservation actions, providing teachers with valuable professional development opportunities.
Conclusion
Brookfield Zoo’s commitment to supporting teachers is evident through the various free opportunities it offers. From free admission and professional development programs to educational resources and field trip enrichment, the zoo aims to empower educators and enhance their ability to teach science, conservation, and environmental stewardship effectively.
By taking advantage of these offerings, teachers can not only provide their students with engaging and educational experiences at the zoo but also strengthen their own professional skills and knowledge. Brookfield Zoo’s dedication to supporting educators makes it an invaluable resource for teachers in the Chicago area and beyond.
Reference:
– Brookfield Zoo’s Free Opportunities for Teachers