JPS adopts animals at Jackson Zoo as part of school partnership for experiential learning

Jackson Public School District announced a partnership with the Jackson Zoo that assigns an adopted animal to each participating high school and gives students volunteer, learning and fundraising responsibilities.

District science staff said the kickoff aligns each high school with a specific animal: Callaway — American cougar; Forest Hill — chimpanzee; Jim Hill — Sumatran tiger; Lanier — Asiatic black bear; Mara — Grevy’s zebra; Provine — white rhinoceros; and a partnership between JTECHs and JMZ for the ostrich and American flamingo. Students assigned to each animal will visit the zoo, assist with feeding and basic care under supervision and participate in fundraising to support their adopted animal.

Danavia Bell, identified as a science instructor and coach for the district high‑school network, introduced the partnership and said the program gives students hands‑on experiences that can inform career choices in animal care, maintenance and zoo operations. Zoo staff encouraged students to listen to experienced keepers and noted that volunteer experiences can lead to future employment at the facility.

Presenters characterized the century‑old Jackson Zoo as needing renewed investment and described the school partnership as a way to develop in‑house talent and community support. Schools will schedule periodic field trips to support animal care and related learning activities.

District staff described the initiative as both educational and practical: students gain unique experiences for resumes while the zoo benefits from volunteer support and community fundraising.