The STREAM Learning Center is a vibrant hub of educational programs that provide lifelong learning opportunities in environmental education

Since its inception in 2020, this dynamic project has engaged approximately 275,000 children and teens each year in meaningful hands-on experiences

​By using the STREAM approach and NGSS guidelines, we ensure that our content is not only thorough and relevant, but also designed to meet contemporary educational standards. They support a rich, well-rounded learning experience that balances academic rigor with practical skills, providing a meaningful and engaging education for students.

​NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) - NGSS are a set of guidelines designed to provide a comprehensive framework for science education. Created to ensure that students gain a profound understanding of scientific concepts and practices, these standards emphasize inquiry-based learning and real-world applications. NGSS aims to equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for their future in higher education, careers, and as informed citizens. learn more

STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) - STREAM integrates Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics into a cohesive educational framework. This approach encourages students to engage in interdisciplinary learning, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. STREAM was developed to ensure that educational content remains relevant and comprehensive, preparing students for a rapidly evolving world by combining the rigor of STEM with the creativity of the Arts and the foundational skills of Reading.

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STREAM Learning Center promotes community engagement and conservation actions​ in Fairfield County and beyond!

I feel like being part of the Explorers program made volunteering more enjoyable to me and understand the value of helping my community, and now I will often volunteer for whatever I can, even outside the zoo. I highly recommend the program and I feel like it teaches invaluable life skills and grew me as a person.
- Zoo Career Explorer student

STREAM Learning Center programs

ZOO TOTS

At what age does the care for wildlife begin? At our Zoo, there's no minimum age for fostering a love of animals. With our Zoo Tots program, even the youngest visitors—starting at 22 months—can dive into the world of wildlife through engaging storytelling, interactive games, and animal encounters. This early exposure helps nurture a lifelong connection with nature, showing that caring for wildlife can start at any age.
​It's a wonderful way to introduce young children to the magic of the zoo while engaging in fun and educational activities.
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zOO PATROL

Our Zoo Patrol program, designed for elementary and middle school students, is perfect for curious young minds eager to learn about animals and conservation. During this week-long summer program, children spend each day exploring different areas of the zoo with custom-guided experiences.
​They get a behind-the-scenes look at various aspects of zoo operations and learn directly from our educators and animal care experts. Through interactive presentations and hands-on projects, participants dive into the world of animal care and wildlife conservation. Activities focus on enrichment, training, diet, and habitat management, offering a comprehensive and engaging educational experience.
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tROUT IN CLASSROOM

​​This program offers Bridgeport students a unique opportunity to participate in the release of brook trout into the Pequonnock River and learn more about aquatic environments. Releasing brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) is a community conservation effort that has a significant impact on local wildlife.
The hands-on experience enhances participant's knowledge of biology and ecology, promotes teamwork, and encourages critical thinking. Through Trout in Classroom, students gain a deeper understanding of ecosystem dynamics and the importance of preserving natural habitats, they learn about water quality, ecosystems, chemistry, environmental pressure, predator-prey relationships, art and folklore.

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cONSERVATION DISCOVERY CORPS

Our Conservation Discovery Corps (CDC) program offers high school students the opportunity to see environmental conservation in action. Conservation is a collective effort, and through our program's collaborations, students meet and work in the field with professionals from various conservation institutions.
The STREAM-based activities offered develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, preparing them for future careers in science and conservation.
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In 2014, CDC was awarded with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Top Honors in Education.

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ZOO CAREER EXPLORERS

Choosing a career path can be daunting for young people, filled with uncertainty and questions about the future. Our program equip high-school students with the tools and knowledge to make informed career decisions.
Through professional sessions, hands-on activities and shadow opportunities, Zoo Career Explorers students gain a comprehensive knowledge about animal care, education, administration, horticulture, marketing & development, maintenance, guest services, and vet care departments. They are able to understand institutions as a sum of expertise, making them explorer different ways to work towards the same goal.

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COOL BLUE BRIDGEPORT

Cool Blue Bridgeport (CBB) is a program that promotes climate action by integrating education and community involvement. 
We work closely with Bridgeport public schools, empowering over 700 students each year to take action to mitigate the effects of climate change. Our Zoo Educators deliver climate-change content integrated with the school curriculum and encourage students to relate the concepts learned to events they have experienced.​
Following a week of classroom learning in Bridgeport schools, the on-ground activities occur on Saturdays. To ensure equal access, the Zoo provides Bridgeport residents with free admission, which allows over 6,500 residents each year to engage in climate-related activities. 

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CITIZEN SCIENCE

Citizen science at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo has a significant impact on both participants and the environment. By engaging in our FrogWatch and/or MonarchWatch, individuals learn about local ecosystems, wildlife conservation, and the critical role they play in protecting local biodiversity. The inclusive nature of citizen science ensures that people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can participate, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility.
Participants gain hands-on experience in data collection and analysis, enhancing their understanding of scientific methods and the importance of their contributions. This collaborative effort also provides valuable data that supports conservation efforts and informs environmental policies.

learn more - FrogWatch / learn more - MonarchWatch

ZOOMOBILE

The Zoomobile program brings the wonders of wildlife to schools, community centers, and various locations across the state. The content is carefully crafted to suit different age groups and are designed to engage and challenge all levels of participants.
Zoomobile bridges the gap between traditional classroom learning and hands-on, experiential education by traveling to various cities and reaching students who might not otherwise have access to such enriching experiences.
In 2023, Zoomobile reached 1,714 individuals (600 children/1,114 adults) throughout 23 towns from Fairfield, Hartford, and New Haven counties.

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RIZE - Research, Internships and Zoo Education

The RIZE program is a transformative partnership between Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo and Fairfield University, where students apply their academic knowledge and skills to tackle wildlife inquiries identified by zoo staff, focusing on real-world challenges and the Zoo's specific needs. Since its inception in 2014, RIZE students presented 18 posters at Association of Zoos and Aquariums annual meetings in Orlando, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Indianapolis, Seattle, and dedicated more than 2,000 hours of research and practical work. 
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​In 2023, the RIZE Program was awarded with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Top Honors in Education.

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and more!

As an umbrella initiative that concentrates all Zoo educational efforts, STREAM Learning Center  encompasses formal programs plus on/off-ground activities such as animal awareness days, career talks, sky hunters in flight, animal presentations, and others.
 
In 2023, the STREAM Learning Center’s formal and informal efforts reached 13,431 adults and 12,465 children through on-ground programming, and an estimated 261,936 adults and 262,575 children through off-ground programming.
Additionally, an estimated 193,248 adults and 23,165 were reached via digital programs, social media livestreams, and radio shows.

​Designed to be suitable for all ages, backgrounds and abilities

Whether you're a curious toddler, a dedicated student, or an adult looking to reconnect with nature, our hands-on activities and inclusive approach ensure that every participant can learn, grow, and contribute to the conservation of our planet. We believe that everyone has a role to play in protecting our environment, and our programs are designed to make that role accessible to all.

​​Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility matters!

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo stands for DEIA, being proudly part of "Accessibility for All," an alliance in Fairfield County dedicated to offering exceptional experiences and services to every guest. Over the years, CBZ has made necessary improvements to enhance accessibility for the public and staff. We have designed quiet areas throughout the zoo where guests that are sensitive to noise can enjoy a peaceful and sensory-friendly atmosphere, and provide noise-canceling headphones, strollers, and wheelchairs upon request. The Zoo is committed to ensuring that all visitors and program participants, regardless of their needs, background, gender, or race, feel welcome, valued, and respected. Our educational programs are designed to be inclusive and engaging for everyone in our culturally rich community. The program’s demographic data shows that over the years, we have seen an increase in ethnic diversity as well as participation from people with disabilities and the LGBTQI+ community. Our efforts to expand the program's reach have also allowed us to reach low-income students in different geographic locations. We continuously evaluate our programs to ensure they are effective and accessible to all. 

​Partnerships

​​Knowledgeable personnel, great resources, and community partnerships are key ​to delivering a high-quality program!​
The Zoo is thankful for the support of various esteemed institutions. Our strong partnerships with public schools and libraries in Fairfield County, universities in Connecticut, and community organizations enable us to create STREAM experiences for individuals of all ages. We take pride in offering these opportunities to both young people and adults, and we are eager to continue collaborating with our esteemed partners. By working together, we strive to inspire a passion for the environment, while also providing valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth in our community.

Support

Support from our community is the backbone of our success!​
​The STREAM Learning Center thrives thanks to the generous contributions of individuals, businesses, and foundations who share our vision for a sustainable future and an empowered next generation. Their support allows us to continue providing innovative environmental education programs that engage and inspire learners of all ages. By investing in our mission, they help us cultivate a deeper connection to the natural world, empower future leaders in conservation, and ensure that our programs remain accessible to everyone. Together, we make a lasting impact on both our community and the environment!

​One of these partners should be YOU!
If our program resonates with you, let's connect. Together, we can amplify our impact.
​Contact us to explore how you can contribute to our mission and help drive positive change.

Thais Thomazini
Manager, Development and Grants   
[email protected]
O: 203-394-6574