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Natural Inquirer: Using Nature to Promote Inquiry

Research shows that increasing inquiry-based science instruction in the classroom has positive impacts on student achievement. During this interactive workshop you will learn about the different types of inquiry activities, experience models of using scientific inquiry to explore the natural world and build your confidence and skill in restructuring some of your elementary classroom lessons to be more inquiry-based and student-centered. You'll discover how different scientific inquiry methods address diverse student learning styles and multiple intelligences to differentiate and create culturally relevant, inclusive experiences for your students. And rest assured - becoming a natural inquirer is fun! You'll leave the course enthusiastic and empowered to engage students in learning and grow their sense of discovery 

April 6th-11th 2026
In-person at the Prospect Park Zoo

From Mammoths to Mountain Lions: Exploring Genetics, Conservation & Human Impact - In-person at Bronx Zoo
Explore the powerful connection between genetics, ecology, and conservation in this high school teacher PD anchored in the New Visions Living Environment curriculum. Investigate human impact on ecosystems through the lens of the Woolly Mammoth unit and the real-world case of mountain lion conservation in Unit 4: Saving The Mountain Lion. Analyze genetic diversity, interpret authentic data, and discover how zoos support species survival.

Eco-Innovators: Engineering Solutions Where Nature Leads - Online class
Join us on an exciting, professional learning experience for educators who want to inspire the next generation of global citizens and problem-solvers. In this course, you'll explore how conservation and engineering can come together to address real-world environmental challenges. Through engaging case studies, Field Sight videos, and hands-on design challenges, you’ll discover how to help students explore the science behind human–wildlife coexistence, sustainable innovations, and biodiversity protection. 

Biographies in the Biosphere: Real Scientists, Real Science and Real Writing - In-person at Central Park Zoo
Explore the groundbreaking work of real-life scientists —pioneers who’ve dedicated their lives to understanding and protecting wildlife across the globe. Through engaging texts and powerful stories, you’ll uncover how these scientists studied big cats, sharks, gorillas, and more—and use their journeys to model meaningful writing with your students. 

Tools and Technology in Conservation - Online class
Explore the world of cutting-edge conservation science—and learn how to translate it into impactful education programs. In this one-day course designed for zoo and aquarium educators, you’ll dive into real-world case studies highlighting how scientists use tools like GPS tracking, camera traps, and data modeling to protect wildlife and ecosystems. Then, shift from learning to application as you collaborate with peers to revise your own programming—integrating STEM strategies and proven teaching practices to inspire the next generation of conservation-minded learners.

Melting, Moving, Missing: Making Climate Change Visible in Nature-Based Education - Online class
In this workshop, we invite educators to explore how climate change is reshaping the natural world—and how to bring those changes to life for students. Through the lenses of rising temperatures (Melting), shifting species ranges (Moving), and biodiversity loss (Missing), this course connects real-world environmental changes to hands-on, nature-based teaching. Dive into human impacts, renewable energy solutions, and strategies for combating the climate crisis. 

Teaching for Impact: Strengthening Conservation Programming in Conservation - Online class
Designed for international zoo and aquarium educators, this dynamic workshop explores your vital role in conservation and the power of empathy to inspire action. Through engaging case studies, hands-on activities, and peer collaboration, you’ll gain effective strategies to teach conservation concepts and foster emotional connections with wildlife. 

Maps are more than just images your students find in their textbooks! They are powerful tools that, in the case of scientists working to save wildlife, can help them to visualize important information they learn that can then be used to save endangered species. Exploration of our

Central Park Zoo exhibits and engagement with activities from our WCS: Field Sight curriculums will introduce you to ways you can have your students (3rd grade and up) practice their mapping and map interpretation skills. The workshop will culminate with teachers taking part in an activity they can utilize with their own students: surveying a natural area near their school and creating a map to detail their findings!

Saturday, March 28th 2026
In-person at the Central Park Zoo.

Join us for an immersive one-day workshop that transforms the zoo into your classroom, where living animals become powerful teachers of empathy, ecology, and our interconnected world. This hands-on experience unfolds in three integrated sections related to curricular themes across grade levels: family studies, ecosystems, and mammal studies. The day focuses on a collaborative Exhibit Design Project where you'll synthesize these scientific, emotional and ecological perspectives, creating exhibits that link scientific understanding with empathy and inspire deeper connections to the natural world. A perfect blend of science and STEM!

Thursday, June 4th 2026
In-person at the Queens Zoo

Sleep with the sharks—and earn up to 10 CTLE hours while you do it! As the aquarium closes to the public, your after-dark adventure begins with exclusive nighttime access, hands-on learning, and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy animal encounters, dinner, pub trivia (drinks included), and a continental breakfast—then roll out your sleeping bag or air mattress inside the Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit for a truly one-of-a-kind overnight.

This year’s theme, Corals, Climate, and Resilience, highlights WCS’s global and local efforts to protect coral ecosystems and build climate resilience. You’ll leave with authentic, classroom-ready ways to teach climate solutions—plus memories you won’t forget!

March 21-22, 2026  at the NY Aquarium.