Outreach Programs

Let us bring the zoo to you!

Zoo educators will bring the zoo to you! We have animals who are able to be transported to your classroom for Animal Ambassador programs tailored to your grade level (K-12). We also offer STEM Night appearances and guest speaking on a variety of topics.

Animal Ambassador Outreach

We have two options for Animal Ambassador programs currently - a porcupine or snakes. We will add more animals soon!

Scheduling and format for all outreach programs:

  • We need a minimum of two weeks notice before your preferred program date.

  • An animal of your choice (from our listed options) is transported to your classroom by zoo educators for a presentation. Animals are subject to change if they have unexpected health issues. Teachers will be informed of changes before the program with the option to reschedule.

  • Programs are 1 hour and are designed for one classroom per program.

  • Due to safety and COVID protocols, only zoo staff will be hands-on with the animals. Items for students to touch will be available with teacher approval.

Outreach prices:

  • $200 per program for 1 hour for 1 classroom within the Anchorage city limits.

  • $250 per program for 1 hour for 1 classroom in areas extending to Girdwood and Palmer/Wasilla.

  • $500 for school assemblies for 1 hour within the Anchorage city limits

  • Programs are available outside of these areas and are subject to special fees and arrangements with zoo educators.

Payment: Once your program is scheduled, you will receive an invoice from the zoo for payment by card, check or cash. Payment is needed before the program date.

Stem Nights

We received many requests for the zoo to have a booth at STEM night events, with many hoping we could bring Sasha the porcupine or a snake. We have limited staff availability, so we have decided to offer zoo appearances for 3 STEM nights per semester.

STEM night rates:

  • Biofacts and flyers (free)  

  • Biofacts and Porcupine Sasha (outreach prices, see prices for Animal Ambassador programs)

Guest Speaking

We offer programs that involve a zoo educator coming to your classroom with a prepared “Animal Care at the Alaska Zoo” PowerPoint program as well as hands-on animal biofacts. These programs are 45 minutes to 1 hour for 1 classroom. We charge $80 for this program in the Anchorage area. Higher rates for areas outside of the Anchorage city limits will apply.