A Day of Discovery, Learning, and Fun in the Heart of New York City Awaits with a Central Park Zoo School Field Trip.
On Wednesday, our C3 and C7 students at Academics West embarked on an exciting educational adventure to the Central Park Zoo, one of New York City’s most iconic learning destinations. The trip was designed to deepen classroom science lessons with real-world experiences, hands-on discovery, and expert guidance from zoo educators.
From reptiles and lemurs to fruit bats and tropical birds, the zoo’s Tropic Zone provided the perfect setting for students to explore animal diversity and behavior up close.
Hands-On Science at the Zoo
The day began with a private lesson led by one of the zoo’s educators, who introduced students to animal classification and biodiversity. During this session, our students:
- Met a chuckwalla, a desert-dwelling lizard
- Examined animal bones, a turtle shell, and other natural objects
- Learned the difference between reptiles, mammals, and amphibians
- Participated in a guided tour of the immersive Tropic Zone habitat.
These experiences allowed students to reinforce classroom concepts interactively and memorably.
Inside the Tropic Zone: Lemurs, Bats, and Beyond
The Tropic Zone at Central Park Zoo replicates a thriving rainforest ecosystem filled with various animal species. During the guided tour, students encountered:
- Banded Mongooses, known for their strong social bonds and group behavior
- Rodrigues Fruit Bats, a critically endangered species vital to seed dispersal
- Mountain Coatis, with their flexible noses and upright striped tails used for foraging
- Victoria Crowned Pigeons, adorned with striking blue feathers and crests
- Leafcutter Ants, working in synchronized lines
- Lemurs, saki monkeys, and tamarins swinging through the canopy
This immersive tour brought science to life and sparked questions and excitement among all students.
To learn more about the incredible animals in the Tropic Zone, visit the official Central Park Zoo website.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Academics West, we are committed to blending academic rigor with hands-on, real-world experiences. This trip is just one example of how we encourage students to explore their interests, ask questions, and learn by doing. Opportunities like these are essential in helping students with learning and emotional differences grow into self-confident, curious, and capable leaders.
Want to Learn More?
Our six-week Summer Semester blends academic support with social-emotional learning and includes weekly field trips to keep students inspired and connected. It’s a great way to prevent summer slide, build confidence, and stay on track.
Questions? Contact our Admissions Office at 212-580-0080 or admissions@academicswest.com.
