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The Zoo School is a small community of mature learners participating both in a traditional and non-traditional style of learning. A place where students play an active role in defining their learning environment and education.

Commonly Asked Questions:

For whom is Zoo School?
A common misconception about Zoo School is that it is only for people interested in science. Actually, Zoo School exists to give students a chance to learn in and outside of the classroom, to have a say in what makes up their education, and to give you a better preparation for future education. Anyone who is motivated and adventurous is welcome at Zoo School. You do not necessarily need to have plans to study a field of science in the future. Many students do go on to do this, but there also many students that go into math, history, and English. The teachers work with you to discover your strengths and help you to decide what you want your future plans to be.

What are the logistics and the details about the day-to-day operations of the Zoo School?
Zoo School is directly connected to Lincoln Public Schools, and follows the same schedule as the regular high schools. If LPS announces a snow day, then Zoo School will have a snow day, since it is a part of LPS. There is no fee for attending the Zoo School, as it is part of the public school system. All you have to do is apply and send in some recommendations. High school transcripts are Lincoln Public School transcripts. Attendance is kept at both the home high school and the Zoo School and is communicated between the two. Lunch breaks last about 4o minutes each day, where students can leave campus, or stay. You can come to Zoo School your sophomore year and can return as many years as you wish.

What are classes like at the Zoo School?
Classes are meant to be challenging, hands-on, and self-motivated. With the days running on a block schedule, the classes are each 1.5 hours long. Writing skills are imperative for each class, and through the years, teachers help students to develop this incredibly important skill. Speakers, field trips, and research trips are all big parts in every class, and focus days are always filled with these things. Teachers are open and flexible to teach what students want to learn, and are willing to go beyond the classroom and schedule to do so.

How do home high schools and the Zoo School work together?
Announcements from each home high schools are posted at the Zoo School each day. Questions and concerns are only a phone call away between each school.

Does Zoo School follow the same finals schedule as the home high schools?
No. Actually, Zoo School students complete portfolios at the end of each semester. These portfolios demonstrate how much the student has learned. Teachers, students, and parents all meet to review the portfolio. Depending on the class, portfolios usually consist of essays, reflections, notes, tests, labs, and anything else the teacher has the student do.