Can the outreach be customized to specific educational topics?

Yes, Heritage Park educators tailor each session to your curriculum needs, focusing on particular animal groups or themes.

What types of animals are included in the presentations?

Presentations may include reptiles, arachnids, insects, small mammals, Arizona native species, and large mammals like mini-horses on-site.

Is there a travel fee for outreach programs?

Mileage is included within the Quad-City area, with a $0.50 per mile fee for locations outside Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, and Dewey.

How long is the outreach session?

Sessions typically last between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the program and group size.

Is this program suitable for all age groups?

Yes, the program is designed to engage a range of ages, from young students to community groups.

What safety measures are in place for the animals and attendees?

All presentations follow strict protocols to ensure animal welfare and participant safety, including supervised handling and controlled environments.

Bringing Arizona Wildlife to Your Classroom with Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

Located in Prescott, Arizona, the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary offers a unique and interactive School or Organization Outreach program designed to bring the wonders of wildlife directly to your educational setting. This 45 to 60-minute experience travels to your location, creating an accessible and hands-on learning environment that sparks curiosity and deepens understanding of local and exotic animal species without the need for a field trip.

This outreach program is perfect for classrooms, libraries, and community groups seeking an unforgettable wildlife presentation tailored to their curriculum. The sanctuary’s educators customize each session, focusing on a wide array of topics that align with your students' needs. Presentations feature creatures ranging from Arizona natives to fascinating reptiles, arachnids, small mammals, and even larger mammals like mini-horses or goats on-site. The thoughtful selection of animals ensures a mix that captivates varied interests and encourages active participation from the audience.

Visitors can expect a well-paced 45-60 minute lesson that balances engaging storytelling, factual education, and close-up encounters that emphasize respect and conservation. The program’s flexibility allows educators to integrate the session into science standards or broader themes around biology, ecology, and environmental stewardship. The outreach covers important regional wildlife including reptiles adapted to Arizona's desert environment and native species, enriching students’ appreciation for local biodiversity.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary stands out in the Prescott area as a vital part of outdoor education, combining wildlife preservation with community outreach to inspire future conservationists. By bringing animals directly to schools and organizations across Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, and Dewey, they break down barriers that often limit hands-on learning opportunities. This mobile approach ensures education is accessible even when transportation or scheduling challenges exist.

The program rates are group-size based, with mileage included within the Quad-City area and a modest travel fee outside it, making it a cost-effective option for many institutions. For educators and organizers seeking tailored lessons or unique themes, Heritage Park’s team is responsive and ready to build a customized experience.

Whether you’re a teacher hoping to enliven your science curriculum or a librarian offering engaging programming, this outreach taps into the power of live animal interaction to foster lasting excitement and respect for wildlife. It’s a rare chance to witness reptiles, creepy crawlies, and mammals up close, all while gaining insights into Arizona’s rich natural heritage.

About Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, Arizona is a community-focused zoological park dedicated to animal care, education, and conservation. The Sanctuary operates year-round and offers a wide range of experiences for families, students, photographers, and event planners. Visitors can attend seasonal events such as WildLights and Holiday Cheers, themed celebrations like Thanksgiving with the Lemurs and Santa with the Animals, and special admission days including Veterans Day and Dollar Day.

Educational programs include ZooLittles preschool sessions, School Guided Tours, School Self-Tours for groups of 10 or more, animal presentations tailored to classroom topics, and outreach visits to schools and senior centers. Hands-on experiences range from Behind the Scenes Photo Tours and Private Behind the Scenes Tours to immersive Keeper for a Day and Junior Keeper for a Day opportunities; several programs require pre-registration to ensure animal welfare and safety.

Venue rentals such as the Pronghorn Deck and Half Pence Pavilion provide outdoor event space with views of Willow Lake, zoo admission options, and support for catering or food trucks. The Sanctuary also offers private guided tours, private animal presentations, and community specials like Free Kids Week and Dollar Day.

All programming emphasizes animal health, safety, and education, and staff-led activities are guided by experienced keepers. The Sanctuary’s calendar blends seasonal festivals, conservation-focused education, and community outreach to create accessible wildlife experiences for Prescott residents and visiting families. Some events, venue rentals, and program fees help support wildlife conservation efforts at the Sanctuary and fund animal care, enrichment, and educational resources.