Grades: Pre-K–12

Group Size: up to 20

Length of Tour: 90 minutes

Description: Embark on an engaging and educational journey through the Ross Park Zoo! Our guided tour takes participants on a captivating exploration of our animal residents, their native habitats, and the pressing conservation issues they face.

During this immersive experience, our knowledgeable tour guides will weave captivating stories about the animals' natural history, highlighting their remarkable adaptations. As we stroll through the zoo, we'll delve into the critical topic of climate change and its impact on wildlife conservation, connecting these discussions to New York State Learning Standards.

This program not only offers an opportunity to witness incredible creatures up close but also aligns with educational objectives, providing a deeper understanding of our environment and the vital importance of wildlife conservation. Join us in this educational adventure, where learning comes to life amidst the wonders of the animal kingdom!

This program supports the following NYS Learning Standards:

English Language Arts Common Core Learning Standards

• • • Comprehension and Collaboration (speaking and listening)

    • Presentation of knowledge of ideas (speaking and listening)

    • Vocabulary acquisition and use

Mathematical Practices Common Core Learning Standards

• Counting and cardinality

• Measurement and data

Science and Engineering Practices

• Using mathematics and computational thinking

Categories: Animals / Environmental Education / Farms / Nature, Art, English Language Arts, Math, Museums / Exhibits, Science, Teamwork/Leadership Skills

Cost: 

●        $200 for up to 20 attendees

●        2 complementary chaperone

●        $9/additional chaperone (excludes 1:1 aides)

●        Complementary admission for 1:1 aides

●        Aides for individuals 18 and over who may require assistance/support due to a disability receive complementary admission

Grades: Pre-K–12

Length of Tour: 90 to 120 minutes

Description: Embark on a journey of wonder at the Ross Park Zoo! Our expansive zoo covers nearly 60 acres, accompanied by access to 30 acres of lush wooded nature trails. Here, you’ll encounter an array of captivating animals, boasting an impressive collection of approximately 100 creatures from around the globe.

We hold firm to the belief that exploring the natural world should be a delightful adventure. Our zoo offers engaging exhibits, interactive learning experiences, and a steadfast commitment to wildlife conservation. We warmly invite you to immerse yourself in the joy of discovery, fostering connections with animals in a secure and vibrant environment.

At the Ross Park Zoo, there’s a world of exploration waiting for curious minds of all ages. Come and craft cherished memories with us today!

This program supports the following NYS Learning Standards:

English Language Arts Common Core Learning Standards

• • • Comprehension and Collaboration (speaking and listening)

    • Presentation of knowledge of ideas (speaking and listening)

    • Vocabulary acquisition and use

Mathematical Practices Common Core Learning Standards

• Counting and cardinality

• Measurement and data

Science and Engineering Practices

• Using mathematics and computational thinking

Categories: Animals / Environmental Education / Farms / Nature, Art, English Language Arts, Math, Museums / Exhibits, Science, Teamwork/Leadership Skills

Cost: 

Sept 3, 2024 - May 25, 2025 

● $5 per person (same for Student/Chaperone) 

May 26, 2025 - September 1, 2025 

● $6 per person (same for Student/Chaperone) 

Grades: 7th

Group Size: 15-60

Length of Tour: 4 hours

Description: The Wild Science Program is designed as a hands-on field trip for 7th-grade science students, ages 12-13, to connect their classroom learning with real-world experiences in the setting of Ross Park Zoo. This program encourages students to actively participate by making observations, recording data, sketching, and engaging in discussions. Its primary focus is to deepen their understanding of ecology, adaptation, and biodiversity.

Activities

●        Four stations, each lasting 40 minutes, with a 20 or 30-minute lunch break.

●        Stations include Water Quality & Biodiversity, Scavenger Hunt, Tree Observation and Identification, and Adaptations for Life.

●        Participants engage in hands-on activities, data collection, and discussions.

This program supports the following NYS Learning Standards:

English Language Arts Common Core Learning Standards

●        Research to build and present knowledge

●        Comprehension and Collaboration (speaking and listening)

●        Presentation of knowledge of ideas (speaking and listening)

●        Vocabulary acquisition and use

Mathematical Practices Common Core Learning Standards

●        Counting and cardinality

●        Measurement and data

Science and Engineering Practices

●        Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering)

●        Planning and carrying out investigations

●        Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)

●        Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

Learning Standards for Physical Education

●        Safe and healthy environment

●        Resource management

●        Science and Engineering Practices

Categories: Animals / Environmental Education / Farms / Nature, Art, English Language Arts, Math, Museums / Exhibits, Science, Teamwork/Leadership Skills

Cost: 

●        Full Group Rate: $500 for up to 60 students.

●        Half Group Rate: $300 for a group of up to 30 students.

●        Chaperone Ratio: One free chaperone included for every 15 students.

●        Additional Chaperones: $6.00 per additional chaperone.