School Discovey Programs at the Virginia Zoo

The Virginia Zoo offers informal science education programs designed to motivate students through interactive live animal presentations while promoting awareness and encouraging conservation of wildlife and the environment.

Dr. Deb Mansfield, Principal, Bay View Elementary, Norfolk and VZS Board Member, participates with students from Bay View Elementary at the dedication of the Education and Visitor Center on April 12, 2003.

All of our programs, where appropriate, are designed to reinforce the Virginia Standards of Learning. Most of these exciting programs can even be brought directly to your classroom as part of our "Zoo to You" Program, which indicates a program that is able to travel to your school. All programs are available on zoo grounds. For more information please e-mail us at education@virginiazoo.org.

This symbol indicates a program that is able to travel to your school.

•  Preschool Hatchling Programs
•  K-3rd Grade Discovery Programs
•  4th-6th Grade Discovery Programs
•  7th-12th Grade Discovery Programs
•  Custom Programs

Planning Your Day at the Zoo!

Teacher Preparation

• Advanced reservations are required through the education department at 757-441-2374 ext. 229.
• After scheduling your visit, you will receive a reservation confirmation.
• To avoid the busy season, March through June, schedule your visit between September and February.
• For your convenience, you may also register online at www.virginiazoo.org.
  
• If you are visiting the zoo and do not wish to include an education program, you do not need to make prior reservations with the zoo.

Cancellations

• If you need to cancel a program, please be courteous to others and do so in advance by calling the Education Department as soon as possible.
• Our programs are held rain or shine and will not be canceled except in cases of extreme weather.

Visit Length

• Allow at least two hours for your zoo visit.
• Students may need extra time to complete educational activities.

Inform Your Chaperones

• Please bring one chaperone for every 10 children. This chaperone will be admitted free to the zoo.
• Chaperones should know your educational goals for the field trip and be able to guide the children's behavior.
• Chaperones should remain with students at all times to ensure an enjoyable visit for all zoo patrons.

Animal Feeding

• Feeding of the animals is not allowed except at the duck pond. Appropriate food is provided in the duck feeder machines and can be purchased for .25.

Bus Parking

• During the busier months, March-June, a Greeter will meet you at the entrance to  the parking lot and instruct your bus driver where to unload your children and park the bus.

Lunches

• Outside food is not permitted in the zoo, please plan to store your lunches on your bus and eat lunch in Lafayette Park after your zoo visit.
• For information regarding table reservations and fees in Lafayette Park, call Norfolk City Recreation, Parks, and General Services at 441-5834.
• If you would like to re-enter the zoo after eating your lunch, please notify the attendant at the zoo ticket booth of your plans.
• The zoo has a full service restaurant if your class chooses to eat on grounds. You will need to pre-order and pre-pay for your meals if you choose to eat at the restaurant. Click here for details. Please call the Education Department for more details.

You Determine Your Group's Behavior

• Be sure to explain and model the good behavior you expect to see at the zoo.
• Please remain on designated pathways.
• Keep food and drinks in outdoor locations.
• Be considerate of other zoo visitors and the animals that live here.

Zoo Packs
For your convenience, you can choose from many items in our gift store prior to your trip and we would be happy to prepare Zoo Packs for your class and  have them ready and waiting for you when you arrive at the zoo. This is a great idea for teachers who wish to avoid waiting in lines and last minute decisions with school groups. Please call the Education Department for more details.

More Information: Hours,  Admission, and Directions | Zoo Map