Oakland Zoo is proud to partner with local school districts, colleges and universities to offer inquiry-based science and environmental education programs, Pre-K through University. Our K-12 programs actively support CA State, Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards and practices. Our college and university partnerships provide post-secondary and graduate students with unique opportunities to learn about animal behavior, research, and veterinary medicine.
Environmental education is at the core of our mission at Oakland Zoo and our goal is to make that connection to conservation more accessible to groups in our community. Whether it’s with a school, youth group, church, or other non-profit organization, making a reservation ensures your group admittance on a specific date and offers a discounted rate. Once inside, you can explore the zoo at your own pace!
The UC Climate Stewards Certification Course will integrate locally relevant themes of the conservation of native plants and animals, environmental justice, and community stewardship. Through guest speakers, field trips, and activities we will learn about and discuss principles and practice towards increasing community and ecosystem resilience to disappearing species, creating equitable and equal access to natural landscapes, and Taking Action for Wildlife. This course takes place every Thursday from January 25 - May 2.
Meet some of our Education animals up close! This live, interactive animal presentation takes place in our outdoor Wildlife Theater (weather permitting). After the program, groups are welcome to explore the Zoo until their departure. This program is great for large groups with multiple classes and multiple age ranges.
For the school year 2023-2024, Oakland Zoo is currently accepting reservation requests for school field trips including education programming. Zoo-to-Community support for programs and transportation is available to OUSD Title 1 schools on a first come first serve basis depending on dates requested. Please note that transportation support is available by request only and dependent on availability of funds and capacity.
Zoo@Home allows you to experience all the educational opportunities from the comfort of your home! Continue where you left off at school with grade level appropriate activities and lessons. Safely enjoy nature and the outdoors while learning more about local wildlife. Learn all about the zoo animals and ask those questions you've always wondered. Even become a Jr. Zookeeper by creating enrichment for your pets at home. New content added weekly!
Discover the Wonders of the World's Wildlife with a ZooMobile Program! Bring the zoo to you in a variety of ways. A myriad of ZooMobile outreach programs have been tailored to meet the needs of your group!
IMPORTANT NOTE: ZooSchool Program reservation requests are now available for the 2023-2024 school year. Bring your class to the Zoo and experience a day full of adventure! Upon arrival each class will be greeted by an Education Specialist, who will bring you to a classroom and introduce your theme. Then you will venture into the Zoo to explore and observe the plants and animals on a guided tour.
Oakland Zoo
(510) 632-9525
Mail: P.O. Box 5238 Oakland, CA 94605
Visit: 9777 Golf Links Road Oakland, CA 94605
© 2023 Oakland Zoo. All rights reserved.