San Diego Zoo

In response to a community need for expanded access to nature-based early learning experiences, the San Diego Zoo will launch a new school program for transitional kindergarten and kindergarten students. Wild Beginnings will engage teachers and community partners in co-designing a two-part learning model that includes an in-school program and a field trip to the zoo. The program will be offered at no cost to classes throughout San Diego County along with transportation support, and the zoo will work in partnership with an advisory committee of classroom teachers to develop the program content and reduce barriers to participation. Consultants will provide staff training to ensure the project aligns with best practices in community-centered inclusive program design. The program will reach over 3,000 students and the zoo will share evaluation findings with peer institutions across the zoo and aquarium field.