The Columbus Zoo: Bringing Conservation Learning to Your Classroom

By: Casey Boehm, Teacher Engagement Educator
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At the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, we’re passionate about empowering people to protect wildlife. We want to make sure you have the tools and resources to make that possible. If you’re looking for a great field trip or new ways to bring conservation education into your classroom, we have something for you!

Here are some of the ways the Zoo can be part of your classroom’s learning:

Educator Resource Library

Explore our free, easy-to-use Educator Resource Library, designed for teachers who want engaging, low-prep activities. Resources include:

  • Printable activities and quick, standards-based lessons
  • Field trip extensions to guide students and chaperones during visits
  • Lesson plans that connect books and hands-on activities to science topics you already teach

Whether you’re planning next week’s science unit or need a quick, standards-aligned activity, we’ve got you covered.

Educator Resource Library

Virtual Field Trip Videos

Can’t bring your students to the Zoo? No problem! Our Zoo Region Video Tours take students on an adventure through areas like Asia Quest and Congo Expedition. Each video highlights animal adaptations, needs, and conservation, bringing science to life.

These 5–8-minute videos are ideal for preparing for your Zoo visit, substitutes, or on days when you need something fun, fast, and educational.

Video Playlist

Be a Part of Our Community

Join our Teacher Facebook Group to connect with other educators and get fresh ideas throughout the year. It’s a great place to swap lesson ideas, share photos from your visits, and get involved with programs like the Teacher Advisory Council (TAC). We love sharing the creative ways teachers bring the Zoo into their classrooms!

Join the Facebook Group

Together for Conservation Learning

Thank you to our incredible Zoo supporters for helping make these programs and resources possible. Together, we can help teachers and students see that every classroom is a place for conservation learning. We can’t wait to see how you and your students make a difference!

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Empowering People.
Saving Wildlife.

Columbus Zoo logo, The Wilds logo, Safari Golf logo, Zoombezi Bay logo