Join us for a unique opportunity to partner with Como Park Zoo and Conservatory for four days of hands-on learning. Created for 3rd grade students, we partner with teachers to deliver a FREE program that brings curriculum to life and creates meaningful experiences that students will remember for a lifetime.

Exploring Ecosystems: Local to Rainforest Connections

Dive into the vibrant world of ecosystems with our interactive program designed to strengthen participants’ connection to the plants and animals in their school environment and at Como. This hands-on experience will explore the similarities and differences between our local forest ecosystem and the rainforest, delving into the unique adaptations of local species compared to their tropical counterparts.

Through engaging activities and guided observations, participants will utilize the Claim, Evidence, Reasoning (CER) method to deepen their understanding of how ecosystems function and how plant and animal adaptations play a crucial role in survival. Join us for an exciting journey of discovery that fosters a lasting appreciation for the biodiversity that surrounds us!

Fall semester runs September 15- December 19, 2025. Applications are due April 2, 2025.

 Spring semester runs January 12- May 15, 2026. Applications open fall, 2025.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. You will be notified of the status of acceptance into the program by April 14th.  In the event an accepted school cannot attend, a waitlist will be maintained.

Email questions to madeline.mccullough@ci.stpaul.mn.us

Twin Cities Metro Schools (One Hour Driving Distance)      

Metro-area schools and greater Minnesota schools that fall within an hour driving radius will have two days of programming at Como and two days of programming at your school during the week. 

• This program is for third-grade classes.
• A typical day of instruction will last most of the day, fit inside your normal school times.
• We can accommodate one class (up to 30 students) per week at Como.
• School will be reimbursed for the cost of transportation.
• Teachers will be engaged along with the students during the lessons taught by the Como education staff.  Teachers may be asked to lead small portions of the day or lead “teacher time” activities.

To apply as a Metro school for the 2025-2026 school year, please click HERE.

Greater Minnesota Schools (More than One Hour Driving Distance)       

Greater Minnesota schools that fall outside of an hour driving radius will have four days of programming at your school during the week. The Residency Specialist will travel to the school to facilitate that week’s programming. 

• This program is for third-grade classes.
• A typical day of instruction will last most of the day, fit inside your normal school times.
• We can accommodate one class (up to 30 students) per week.
• Teachers will be engaged along with the students during the lessons taught by the Como education staff.  Teachers may be asked to lead small portions of the day or lead “teacher time” activities.

To apply as a Greater Minnesota school for the 2025-2026 school year, please click HERE.

Thanks to the generous funding from the Legacy Amendment Arts and Cultural Heritage Grant this program is being offered to participants for FREE.