Teen Pathways at the Zoo
These Zoo education and leadership programs offer youth and teens hands on experiences in conservation education and professional skill building. Participants may work directly with Zoo guests, support camps and special events, and develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills while exploring careers in education, STEM, and nonprofit organizations. Programs include paid internships, free leadership opportunities, and camp scholarships so young people of all ages can learn, grow, and connect with wildlife regardless of financial barriers.
ZooGuides
ZooGuides (16-18 years old) are paid education interns from local high schools and colleges who engage Zoo visitors during the busiest times of the year. The program focuses on building real workplace and professional skills, like communication, responsibility, and teamwork, while gaining hands-on experience in STEM-related topics. ZooGuides leave better prepared for college, careers, and adult independence.
Paid training hours starts in June on the weekends. Then it becomes up to 30 hours per week while school is out. A select few students may be chosen to stay on weekends thru October.
Registration Application due 4/1/2026
Register Here!
Teen Leaders for Conservation (TLC)
The Teen Leaders for Conservation (TLC) is a free, inclusive program that empowers young people to actively support wildlife conservation through education, leadership development, fundraising, and community engagement. Serving students ages 14–18, the Council bridges hands-on conservation projects with meaningful, real-world nonprofit governance experience.
Members contribute to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo’s mission by creating interactive educational materials for guests, supporting Friends of the Zoo fundraising events, and learning how nonprofit boards function. Through these experiences, participants help shape philanthropic initiatives and serve as a liaison between younger audiences and Zoo leadership.
Guided by Zoo Education and Philanthropy professionals, Council members gain insight into how nonprofit organizations operate while having a genuine voice in decision-making and project development. Emphasizing collaboration, creativity, and ownership, the Council gives youth the tools and confidence to turn their ideas into action—fostering leadership skills, community connections, and a lifelong commitment to conservation.
The commitment is once a month for a planning meeting for an hour after school during the school year. Then there will be additional hours for activities on the weekends.
Registration Application due 2/27/2026
Register Here!
Camp Scholarship
A full-ride scholarship for PreK–12th grade youth to attend Zoo Camp. Covers camp fees, meals, and an extra camp shirt, removing financial barriers so every child can enjoy hands-on conservation education, build confidence, and connect with nature.
Due April 15th for camps that run June 22-August 28.
Register Here!
Counselor-In-Training (CIT)
Come put your skills to the test while learning some new ones too! Explore the world of conservation education and discover what it takes to be a true conservation educator. Gain real classroom experience by creating activities supporting young campers and developing transferable skills like collaboration, leadership, curriculum design, sustainability, and community building all while building your resume and growing the qualities of a future conservationist. 7-12th grade
July 6-17th
Register Here!
