Educator Professional Development
Calling all Teachers! Earn Professional Development Hours at the Zoo.
Whether you teach upper level science or cross-curricular elementary, TBZ has some exciting PD opportunities for you! Join experienced Educators for NGSS aligned professional development programs leveraging the resources of Turtle Back Zoo. Each session will cover relevant scientific background as well as provide advice and materials for classroom implementation. Each program includes a tour of the zoo, keeper talk, and special animal encounter. The cost is $200/person; attendees will earn 5 Professional Development Hours.
All Upcoming Dates and Themes
Thursday, March 19 @9am-3pm | Genetics and Zoo Conservation
- This program focuses on concepts such as diversity, disorders, bottlenecks, sexual selection, etc. using our zoo animals as examples. We will discuss the role of genetics in the Species Survival Plan and conservation initiatives at the zoo and beyond.
Friday, May 8 @9am-3pm | Climate Change and Data Literacy
- In collaboration with Rutgers University Cooperative Extension, this workshop will discuss the effects of climate change on habitats and the animals that live there, while examining real data from scientists currently in the field.
Thursday, March 26 @9am-3pm | Genetic Variation and Conservation
- This workshop focuses on the importance of genetic variation within animal populations. We will discuss the effects of habitat fragmentation and examine various ways communities and zoos are helping maintain genetic diversity.
Tuesday, May 12 @9am-3pm | Climate Change and Animal Habitats
- In collaboration with Rutgers University Cooperative Extension, this workshop will examine how animal habitats are effected by climate change. Using science based solutions, we will discuss ways to reduce the impact of humans on the environment and the animals that live there.
Registrants should meet at the Berson Learning Center as early as 8:50am; the program begins promptly at 9am. A light breakfast of bagels and coffee will be provided. Please bring your own lunch or visit a nearby lunch location if you wish to purchase. Don’t forget your reusable water bottle. Dress is casual, however, be prepared for both indoor and outdoor activities. The program is located at the Berson Family Center at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange. The cost is $200/participant; a PD certificate for 5 hours will be provided.
Cancellations
In order to receive a refund, cancellations must be made in writing at least 7 days prior to the scheduled date and time; no refunds will be given less than 7 days before the event. TBZ reserves the right to cancel a program for any reason. In the case of a cancellation made by TBZ, registered individuals will be contacted and a full refund will be provided.
For more information about this program, please contact Danielle Hoffman at [email protected].
If your school needs a purchase order, please contact Lisa Golden at [email protected]
MORE INFOMATION
Call us for more information on events, bookings, or zoo visits! To book a group reservation or party, call and ask for Group Sales. Our Group Sales Department phones can be busy at times, so you many need to leave a message. Teachers, please include a preferred callback time if needed, so we can try to connect. Please allow at least 48 hours for a return call before trying again.
Call - (973) 731-5800