The Dallas Zoo offers a wide range of educational programs and field trip opportunities for schools, aligning with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. These visits provide students with hands-on experiences, animal encounters, and conservation education. From preschoolers to high school students, the zoo caters to various age groups with tailored programs, competitive rates, and curriculum-based activities.
What Educational Programs Does Dallas Zoo Offer for School Visits?
Dallas Zoo provides several educational programs designed to engage students of different age groups:
- WildLife Heroes Club:
- Age group: 3-8 years
- Focus: Environmental consciousness
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Activities: Zoo habitat observations, animal interactions, hands-on projects
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Friday Safari and Thursday Safari:
- Age groups:
- Preschoolers (3-5 years)
- School-aged students (5-12 years)
- Activities: Stories, observations, animal interactions, STEM projects
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Alignment: Integrated with curriculum standards for science, art, and other subjects
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Homeschool Day:
- Target: Homeschoolers
- Theme: Four biomes of Texas
- Alignment: Science and environmental education standards
How Can Schools Schedule a Field Trip to Dallas Zoo?
Scheduling a field trip to Dallas Zoo involves several steps:
- Determine eligibility and group size
- Contact the Education Department for arrangements
- Choose a date and time:
- Spring/Summer: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Fall/Winter: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Book in advance to secure your preferred date
What Are the Rates and Amenities for School Groups at Dallas Zoo?
Rates:
- Students and teachers: $9 per person
- Additional adults: $9 per person (purchase upon arrival)
- Parking: Free for school buses, $12 per additional vehicle
Discounts:
- Available for Title I schools (contact Education Department for details)
Amenities Included:
- Zoo admission
- Access to walk-up activities (Keeper Chats, demonstrations)
- Designated picnic areas for lunch
What Curriculum-Based Activities Are Available During School Visits?
Dallas Zoo offers a variety of curriculum-based activities:
- Guided Tours: Explore the zoo with knowledgeable guides
- Animal Encounters: Get up close with various species
- STEM Activities: Engage in hands-on science and technology projects
- Conservation Education: Learn about wildlife preservation through interactive sessions
- Art Projects: Combine creativity with animal and nature themes
Educational Materials:
- Weekly newsletters
- Documentation of learning outcomes
- Take-home journals
- Virtual resources (Google Classroom, Zoom, Brightweel app)
What Are the Costs and Requirements for Specific Programs?
| Program | Cost (per child) | Member Discount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playful Zoology | $450 (9-week session) | 10% off | Advance booking |
| WildLife Heroes Club | $200 | $180 | Advance booking |
| Friday/Thursday Safari | $525 | $475 | Advance booking, toilet trained |
Additional Requirements:
– Minimum adult supervision: One adult per ten students
– Some programs require children to be completely toilet trained
How Does Dallas Zoo Ensure Educational Value in School Visits?
- Alignment with TEKS: Programs are designed to meet Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards
- Age-Appropriate Content: Activities tailored for different grade levels
- Hands-On Learning: Interactive experiences to reinforce classroom concepts
- Professional Educators: Trained staff to guide and educate students
- Diverse Subject Integration: Incorporation of science, art, and environmental studies
What Safety Measures Are in Place for School Visits?
- Trained Staff: Knowledgeable about animal behavior and safety protocols
- Designated Areas: Safe spaces for group activities and animal interactions
- First Aid Facilities: On-site medical assistance if needed
- Clear Guidelines: Provided to teachers and chaperones before the visit
- Sanitization Stations: Throughout the zoo for hygiene maintenance
How Can Teachers Prepare Students for a Dallas Zoo School Visit?
- Pre-Visit Materials: Request educational resources from the zoo
- Classroom Discussions: Introduce zoo-related topics before the visit
- Assignment Preparation: Plan activities that students can complete during the visit
- Behavioral Expectations: Review zoo etiquette and safety rules
- Gear Check: Ensure students have appropriate clothing and supplies
Dallas Zoo school visits offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, providing students with memorable experiences that complement their classroom learning. From interactive programs to curriculum-aligned activities, these visits cater to various educational needs while promoting conservation awareness and environmental stewardship.