Discover how the Detroit Zoo can be an extension of your classroom! Our programs include synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities that support what students are learning in their classrooms. We are adding content on a consistent basis to meet the changing needs of our community, so check in regularly to see everything we have to offer.
Educator Professional Development
Teacher professional development Grades K – 12$25 for each chat Are you ready to explore the animal kingdom from the comfort of your classroom? Our zoo web chats connect your class with our knowledgeable animal care staff and allow your students to ask all their burning questions about their favorite animals. During the chats, you’ll […]
Free Resources
Virtual Ventures Join the Detroit Zoological Society for free, self-paced virtual programs including exciting animal-related content, expert interviews, hands-on activities, and much more. LEARN MORE Vitamin Z lessons Bring the Zoo to you! Join us for a Virtual Vitamin Z lesson. With fun and engaging activities covering animals from flamingos to wolves to native wildlife […]
Field Trips
School Group Field Trip + Learning Lab Bring the Zoo to you! Join us for a Virtual Vitamin Z lesson. With fun and engaging activities covering animals from flamingos to wolves to native wildlife — there is a topic for everyone. Most lessons also include an activity that families can do together using supplies at […]
Virtual Ventures
Join the Detroit Zoological Society for free self-paced virtual programs including exciting animal-related content, expert interviews, hands-on activities, and much more. Topics include international conservation work, careers at the Zoo, storytelling, animals in our neighborhoods, and much more.
Virtual Vitamin Z Lessons
Bring the Zoo to you! Join us for a Virtual Vitamin Z lesson. With fun and engaging activities covering animals from flamingoes to wolves to native wildlife — there is a topic for everyone. Most lessons also include an activity that families can do together using supplies at home.
Education Events and Award Programs
Education Events celebrate learning in our community by connecting educators with resources, recognizing young people who are making the world a better place, and providing opportunities to explore the wonder of the Detroit Zoo.
Educator Professional Development
Join us for dynamic workshops on a variety of topics as you connect content area experts and your teaching colleagues at the wildest place in town. The Detroit Zoo is committed to providing engaging, relevant, and exciting learning opportunities to teachers while offering SCECH’s that meet state requirements.
Conservation Conversations
Virtual Learning Labs explore science concepts and skills, while sharing information about the animals the DZS cares for during a live, interactive session. Programs include a virtual visit to a habitat at the Detroit Zoo, an opportunity to interact with DZS staff, and a math or literacy activity. We are able to accommodate all classrooms’ learning settings; we understand that plans change from moment to moment. The 45-minute sessions are held weekdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Virtual Field Trips
Virtual Learning Labs explore science concepts and skills, while sharing information about the animals the DZS cares for during a live, interactive session. Programs include a virtual visit to a habitat at the Detroit Zoo, an opportunity to interact with DZS staff, and a math or literacy activity. We are able to accommodate all classrooms’ learning settings; we understand that plans change from moment to moment. The 45-minute sessions are held weekdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Virtual Classroom Chats
Virtual Learning Labs explore science concepts and skills, while sharing information about the animals the DZS cares for during a live, interactive session. Programs include a virtual visit to a habitat at the Detroit Zoo, an opportunity to interact with DZS staff, and a math or literacy activity. We are able to accommodate all classrooms’ learning settings; we understand that plans change from moment to moment. The 45-minute sessions are held weekdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Virtual Learning Labs
Virtual Learning Labs explore science concepts and skills, while sharing information about the animals the DZS cares for during a live, interactive session. Programs include a virtual visit to a habitat at the Detroit Zoo, an opportunity to interact with DZS staff, and a math or literacy activity. We are able to accommodate all classrooms’ learning settings; we understand that plans change from moment to moment. The 45-minute sessions are held weekdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
SCHOOL GROUP FIELD TRIP + LEARNING LAB
A classroom visit to the Detroit Zoo is a memory students carry with them long after they board the bus to go back to school. Learning Labs elevate students’ learning by providing immersive experiences that help students take on the identities of scientists, conservationists, and future zoologists as they connect with natural world.
Web-Based Curriculum
Web-based curriculum is learner-driven and resource rich, providing
opportunities to engage with real data and multimedia assets to match an immersive learning experience with schedule flexibility.
Day at The Zoo
The Day at the Zoo (DATZ) program provides an opportunity for students to experience the Detroit Zoo by awarding financial assistance to classrooms where funds may be limited. Made possible by generous donors, including those who have contributed to the David K. Page Fund, groups granted funding through the DATZ program receive one virtual learning lab or one in-person learning lab.