Green Workforce Foundations

Students take part in hands-on experiences in pollinator gardens, wildlife habitats, recycling systems, and sustainable food networks. They investigate how daily choices affect local ecosystems and learn how people, animals, and the environment depend on one another. Activities may include habitat surveys, waste audits, garden workdays, and food-system explorations that build real-world environmental literacy and stewardship.

Participants practice workforce and leadership skills in structured workshops and team-based projects. They strengthen communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking while taking on real responsibilities in the field. Through public speaking opportunities, peer leadership roles, and professional expectations (punctuality, accountability, and follow-through), students build confidence and readiness for future jobs and community leadership.

Students rotate through experiences connected to careers such as wildlife biology, horticulture, sustainability coordination, and environmental education. Each experience links a real environmental issue—like habitat loss, stormwater management, or waste reduction—to the professionals who work on those challenges. Youth are encouraged to ask questions, meet staff, and design small-scale solutions, helping them see themselves in future green careers.

Schools and students commit to a sustainability-focused project that benefits their campus or neighborhood. Projects might include creating or expanding pollinator gardens, launching waste-reduction campaigns, improving recycling systems, or designing climate and conservation awareness events.

As a required component of the program, participating schools and students will plan, implement, and share the outcomes of their project. To support their success, program staff will provide regular check-ins throughout the program to offer guidance, resources, and assistance as needed.

By planning, implementing, and sharing their projects, students develop leadership, project management, and community engagement skills while making a meaningful and visible environmental impact.

Does the program have a cost associated with it?
No. The program is free for participants.

Will there be walking during the program?
Yes. Our education programs are interactive experiences that take place in different locations within the Zoo. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and dressing appropriately for the weather. If you have any accessibility needs or concerns regarding mobility, please let us know so that accommodations can be made, if needed. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo strives to ensure all participants can fully engage in and enjoy the experience. You can find more information on the Zoo's Accessibility page(Opens in a new window).

Who can participate?
The pilot program is designed for groups of students in grades 5-6 participating through schools and educational organizations. Individual student registration is not available. Students participate as part of a classroom, club, after-school program, or other organized group.

Can I sign up an entire classroom?

Yes! Teachers are welcome to register their entire class for this program. If you are interested in registering a classroom or large group, please contact us in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements and ensure the best possible experience for all participants.

Will lunch be provided?

Lunch will not be provided during this event. Participants are encouraged to bring snacks. Water refill stations will be available, and participants are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Participants who require accommodations are encouraged to contact us at least one week in advance so that we can make the necessary arrangements to support their participation.