Education: School Group Rules San Diego Zoo
Grades 7 to 12
We look forward to your visit and hope you have a wonderful experience exploring our Zoo. Over 200,000 school children visit us each year. Most school groups follow our rules and respect our animals and property.
Past problems
Unfortunately, a small number of students have been caught vandalizing Zoo property, swearing at other guests, and harassing the animals. During a recent school year:
- In one day, over $5,000 in damage was caused at Polar Bear Plunge and hippos by unsupervised students scratching graffiti into the glass panels.
- Students riding the Skyfari tram were observed spitting at guests and throwing objects at other guests and animals.
- Students from several middle and high schools were found unescorted on Zoo grounds and their groups were escorted from the Zoo as a result.
Chaperones
To help prevent these problems and for the safety of your students, you are required to bring enough adults to assist your group:
- Grades 3 to 12 : 1 adult/10 students
Classes including students with disabilities may bring one adult per student needing assistance. All classes should be familiar with our Chaperone Guide.
If you ride the Skyfari
$3 per person each way (prices subject to change). No spitting, rocking, standing, or throwing objects—it's against the law. One adult must ride in each Skyfari car.
Consequences
Students who are found unescorted will be brought to the Security Office near the Zoo's entrance, and their group will be asked to leave. Students vandalizing or shoplifting will be prosecuted. Schools will be asked to pay for any damage caused by their students. Serious violations will suspend that school's privilege of visiting the Zoo for one year.
Independent Study
Middle and high school teachers sometimes require students to be in smaller study groups in order to complete assignments. The Independent Study program allows teachers to register for this privilege. Interested teachers should contact our reservations line at 619- 557-3962 or 557-3963 for a registration form.
