Ninety-three GEAR UP students from Atoka Public Schools recently toured the Oklahoma City Zoo located in Oklahoma City’s Adventure District.
Students enjoyed exploring the zoo which is home to more than 1,900 animals. The exhibits include an Asian themed section that houses the elephant habitat with outdoor yards, pools, waterfalls and a barn which can be viewed from a raised boardwalk. The students were also intrigued by the Cat Forest/Lion overlook containing species of big and small cats.
Another popular exhibit was Oklahoma Trails featuring animals native to Oklahoma including black bears, alligators, bison and over two dozen snakes. The students had an up close look at the familiar animals and were able to learn more about their habitats and routines.
“We all remember our own field trips as young students and the impact they had on us,” said GEAR UP Education Coordinator Denise Lovell. “Students in the GEAR UP program are encouraged to explore life beyond the classroom and to experience new pathways.”
The field trip was sponsored by Eastern Oklahoma State College GEAR UP. Participating schools take two field trips each academic year—one to tour a college or university and one that is cultural/educational in nature. Eastern recently received a $17 million federal GEAR UP grant and will serve over 3,000 students in 39 area schools for seven years.
