ROLLING HILLS ZOO

Salina  | rollinghillszoo.org

ZOO TO YOU Education programs

Rolling Hills Zoo’s mission of  Touching Hearts, Igniting Passion, and Saving Wildlife extends far beyond the zoo’s boundaries through our Zoo to You programs. Created to engage students from 1st to 12th grade, our hands-on interactive activities, featuring animal ambassadors and bio-facts, immerse students in the fascinating dynamics of the natural world. Each program is designed to be a catalyst for wildlife conservation, empowering students to make changes in their everyday lives that positively impact the world we share with species both big and small.

PROGRAM DETAILS

As programs are scheduled, Rolling Hills Zoo staff will collaborate with each school’s teachers to adapt the content to their education standards and needs. These engaging programs introduce students to fascinating species while fostering connections to the natural world. In the process, students develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife, igniting a passion to explore and protect our environment. Each program includes activities that students can integrate into their daily lives, at school or at home, including planting pollinator gardens or creating bee watering stations.

PROGRAM AVAILABILITY

October 9-11, 2024: Available in Cheyenne, Rawlins, Decatur, Sherman, Thomas, Sheridan, Wallace, Logan and Gove counties.*

March 5-7, 2024: Available in Norton, Phillips, Smith, Graham, Rooks, Osborne, Trego, Ellis and Russell counties.*

*Returning schools receive priority.

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

WHAT’S BUGGING ME? (1st – 12th Grade): 45-Minute Program

Embark on a captivating journey into the world of bugs! Whether it’s the delicate monarch butterflies or industrious bees, this immersive program will have your students diving deep into the lives of various bug species and their crucial roles in our ecosystem. From pollinating vibrant flowers and vital crops to breaking down organic matter, each bug has a unique and essential job.

Students will uncover the intricate diets of these fascinating creatures and discover the predators that rely on them for their next meal. Through hands-on activities and engaging lessons, they’ll gain a profound understanding of the intricate web of life that bugs support.

As they explore this enchanting world, students will not only learn about the diverse and fascinating habits of bugs, but will also develop a newfound appreciation for their importance and discover practical ways to support and protect these tiny yet mighty creatures and the delicate balance they provide in our natural world. Get ready for a bug-tastic adventure that will inspire curiosity and a deeper respect for the often-overlooked heroes of our environment!

ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS (1st – 12th Grade): 45-Minute Program

Get ready for an exciting exploration of the natural world with our immersive adaptations program! Students will delve into various ecosystems, investigating how animals adapt to their unique environments.

Through interactive activities, students will gain a profound appreciation for animals and their amazing adaptations, uncovering the intricate relationships that sustain life in the world’s unique habitats. They’ll learn how different species contribute to the health and balance of their ecosystems, and the vital roles they play in maintaining biodiversity.

By the end of this adventure, students will not only understand the significance of animals’ adaptations to their habitats but also develop a deeper respect for the natural world. They’ll be inspired to become stewards of the environment, equipped with knowledge and passion to protect and preserve these precious ecosystems for future generations. Join us for a captivating journey that will transform the way students see the world around them!

NOTE:  These on-site programs are recommended for classes of no more than 50 students to ensure a positive and impactful experience. We suggest grouping grades as follows: 1st & 2nd, 3rd & 4th, 5th & 6th, and 7th – 12th. Multiple programs per day are based on availability and first-come, first-served. These programs are also available to Saline County schools, subject to scheduling availability.

SCHEDULING: To schedule a program, go to rollinghillszoo.org/education and fill out the Education Program Inquiry Form under Zoo to You.  For more information or to schedule a program, contact Teagan Miller, Rolling Hills Zoo Education Curator at 785-827-9488 ext. 132, or Teagan@rollinghillszoo.org