Zoo Academy
What is the Zoo Academy Program?
The Zoo Academy provides a jump start to post-secondary plans. It provides opportunities for students to explore the four missions of the Zoo; Conservation, Education, Research and Recreation, along with academic core requirements for graduation.
The Zoo Academy provides students with transferable skills and technical experience to meet the needs of their career. Exploration occurs in the following settings: jungle, aquarium, Wild Kingdom Pavilion, hoof stock, birds, diet kitchen, marking, mechanical operations and the Conservation Research Center.
Career fields include: zoology, genetics, ecology, vet science, horticulture, animal behavior, marine biology, zoo management, business, marketing, photography and graphic arts.
Who can participate?
Students in grades 11 and 12 are invited to participate in this career academy.
Why should you become involved?
National data indicates that students in Career Academy Programs:
- Score higher on achievement tests
- Have a higher graduation rate
- Are more likely to attend college if their career requires post-secondary education
- Have a higher post-secondary G.P.A.
- Earn higher wages if they receive industry certification
When can you start?
The program begins at the Registration for the Junior and Senior year course schedule. In year one, students will take core courses and electives to explore careers. Year two continues to build on the basic core skills and provides an opportunity for students to explore career fields further.
Prerequisites include…
- On-track for graduation
- Successful completion of 9th and 10th grade science courses
- A demonstrated desire to pursue a career in Zoology or a related field
General information
The Zoo Academy is located at…
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
3701 South 10th Street
Omaha, NE 68107
Transportation will be provided to and from the student's home high school at the beginning and end of each day.
Grab-and-Go lunches can be picked up at the student’s home high school. Students can also bring their own lunch or dine in the cafeteria.
How do I apply?
Fill out the academy enrollment application and submit it to your high school counselor.
Zoo Academy Application
How can you learn more?
For more information please contact:
- Guidance Counselor at your high school
- Paul Hans, Academy Coordinator
402.537.6248
phans@paplv.esu3.org
What students are saying
Steve: “Small class sizes.”
Nicole: “I love that the zoo is our classroom.”
Katie: “Shadowing is my practical experience.”
Amanda: “Where else can you see a peacock walk down the hallway?”
Kiley: “Externship experiences opened the doors to the National Junior Science Convention.”
Dylan: “Zoo Academy is like a field trip everyday!”
Miranda: “I like how closely bonded we feel here!”
Connections
- The Zoo Academy is an extension, not a replacement, of the student high school experience.
- Classes are geared toward students who wish to pursue a career in Animal health, graphics, conservation or education.
- Course time is blocked into 90 minute sessions, giving students more opportunities for practice and application.
- Students remain connected to their high school, allowing them to enroll in electives, AP courses and extracurricular activities.
Top 10 Reasons to attend the Zoo Academy
#10 The Zoo is our classroom
#9 Teaches time management skills and prepares me for college
#8 Flexible scheduling allows for extra activities
#7 Variety of career paths
#6 Animals … a definite plus
#5 Career oriented
#4 Small classes, more one-on-one teaching
#3 Knowledgeable instructors
#2 Family feeling (all are accepted)
#1 Shadowing with Zoo professionals
Zoo Academy Brochure
Click here to watch the Health Systems/Zoo Academy Video.
Click here to watch the Channel 6 WOWT High School Cribs on the Zoo Academy.