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Studying Animal Behavior with the Science Practices  

What is “behavior,” how does it impact our lives and our teaching, and how do scientists study it? In this course, for P-Credits and CTLE hours, participants will learn how animals can motivate and enhance student learning. Through this introduction to animal behavior, participants learn the basics of behavior, why it is important, and how it is studied, utilizing science skills, and embarking on their very own animal behavior investigation! We will also explore how behavior is not always an objective topic and sensory perceptions, and culture shape the meaning we make in the world, and how we can deal with that. Participants will hear the inside story of animals and some of the amazing examples of animal behavior, such as self-identity, mourning, sensory perceptions, and more. Participants will practice developing good investigable research questions, learn the implementation of techniques to observe animals, and will practice collecting and reporting relevant behavioral data. Additionally, participants will explore how to use and modify these skills for classes of varying ages – from elementary through to middle school, as well how to use and modify these skills to create an equitable learning environment for all students, including students from groups historically excluded from science.

If you have any accessibility needs that would prevent you from attending this course, please contact teacherinfo@wcs.org right away so we can make the necessary accommodations.

In Person at the Bronx Zoo 

Save A Species: Wildlife and Human Impact   

Join us to protect wildlife! In this hybrid learning course, secondary science teachers will explore how human impacts, like climate change, affect ecosystems and their key organisms. Using interactive experiences such as exhibit visits, discussions and hands on activities, participants will understand how wildlife biologists address these mounting concerns around biodiversity loss and how they can too! Participants will walk away with innovative instructional strategies that engage students in authentic ways and a species conservation action plan that will support their work in the classroom for a student – centered approach of human impact on the environment.

If you have any accessibility needs that would prevent you from attending this course, please contact teacherinfo@wcs.org right away so we can make the necessary accommodations.

In-person at the Bronx Zoo 

Marine Animals 

Join us for this CTLE and P-Credit course for Preschool through Elementary teachers as we explore the New York Aquarium and get up close and personal with some of the amazing marine animals that live there. Participants will blend science and ELA as we explore both large and small creatures of the sea, their adaptations, habitats, survival needs, and interactions. Additionally, we will discuss the ways humans are impacting these animals and what we can do about it. We will get a virtual sneak peek into the brand new exhibits at the aquarium to discover ways to use these exhibits with students as well as engaging activities to bring back to the classroom. Work collaboratively with peers and create an assessment to be used in your own classroom as you explore how marine animals can help you meet the NY State learning standards for science and ELA. 

If you have any accessibility needs that would prevent you from attending this course, please contact teacherinfo@wcs.org right away so we can make the necessary accommodations.

July 21-26, 2025 at the NY Aquarium  

Get outside, get dirty, do hands-on practical science with the New York Aquarium. This course will cover techniques in field studies, animal collecting, ecological monitoring, and water chemistry while giving participants an introduction to marine ecology. A diversified teaching approach will reinforce and extend both science process and content skills and will connect to the New York State Science Learning Standards, and heavily feature the NGSS Science and Engineering practices. Multi-faceted teaching approaches will utilize group investigations, audio-visual presentations, journaling, and interactive learning strategies. Field trips to Coney Island beach and a local marsh will immerse participants in both the ecological importance of salt marshes and sandy shore habitats, as well as prepare teachers to take students on these outings. Teachers will sharpen inquiry skills with science investigation design and reflect in journals on the pedagogical applications of the course content to their curriculums. Each participant will also receive supplemental instructional resources.

If you have any accessibility needs that would prevent you from attending this course, please contact teacherinfo@wcs.org right away so we can make the necessary accommodations.

This program is held at the New York Aquarium.

Integrating Nature and Science into Early Childhood Education 

Where better to earn your P-Credits than at the Bronx Zoo! With time outdoors and in, this course takes a hands-on approach to support early childhood educators in weaving more science and nature into their classrooms and learning centers. We will break down research and best equitable practices for all students, particularly those who have been historically underserved and marginalized, about engaging young children with the scientific process and the natural world.

Teachers will be provided with knowledge, strategies, concrete examples, and collaborative workshops to create practical, inclusive, and realizable plans for bringing nature and science to their preschool and early childhood students. The environment is in desperate need of assistance, kids spend most of their time indoors, and now more than ever, the role of early childhood educators to engage and excite young children about the natural world is critical for the future of our planet!

If you have any accessibility needs that would prevent you from attending this course, please contact teacherinfo@wcs.org right away so we can make the necessary accommodations.

This program is held at the Bronx Zoo.

Small Bugs, Big Science    

"Bugs” are everywhere and are a fabulous gateway to the natural world. This P-Credit and CTLE course for pre-k and elementary teachers will help you dive into the miniature world of bugs to build on your own and your student’s cultural perspective towards bugs, to foster positive attitudes towards the amazing world of insects and the important role they play in the environment and our own lives. Learn how to cover language arts, math, social studies, and life science standards in fun, interactive ways, even in a remote world. You will explore the biology behind these amazing animals, from life cycles to coloration, and take away tips and tricks for making your classroom activities, (in-person or remote) into a very buggy adventure!

If you have any accessibility needs that would prevent you from attending this course, please contact teacherinfo@wcs.org right away so we can make the necessary accommodations.

In-person at the Bronx Zoo 

Join us for an engaging one-day teacher workshop designed to help educators connect climate change and conservation to their curriculum. Through the lens of both local and global WCS success stories, explore inspiring real-world examples, create hands-on activities, and gain practical strategies that will empower participants to bring these critical topics to life for students. Walk away with actionable resources to integrate climate and conservation lessons into your curriculum, fostering environmental stewardship and a deeper understanding of the world around us.   

Friday June 6, 2025 
In-person at the Bronx Zoo.

For our third annual teacher overnight spend the night with the fishes and earn up to 10 CTLE hours while you do it! We will begin our overnight adventure as the aquarium begins to close, giving you exclusive access to the aquarium after dark! Your overnight adventure will include activities that provide engaging learning opportunities you can take back to your students, animal encounters, dinner, pub trivia (drinks included), and a continental breakfast. Bring your sleeping bag or air mattress to set up inside the Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit, and we’ll provide a night you’ll never forget! 

April 5-6, 2025  at the NY Aquarium.