Wild Learning in Action: Out of Africa Safari Park Field Trip 🦒🐅

Our monthly field trip took learning beyond the classroom and into the wild as 27 students and families traveled 1.5 hours from Phoenix, AZ for an exciting educational adventure at Out of Africa Safari Park. For this special excursion, we rented a coach van—our first long-distance field trip—turning travel time into community-building, conversation, and anticipation for the day ahead.

Students experienced Arizona Academic Standards in real time through hands-on, experiential learning in life science, environmental studies, and communication. From getting up close and personal while feeding giraffes to observing animal behavior during the tiger splash show, students explored concepts such as habitats, ecosystems, adaptation, and conservation through direct observation and inquiry-based learning.

The highlight of the day was an interactive Q&A session with zookeepers as they fed lions and bears—truly a “lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” moment. Students practiced critical thinking and communication skills by asking thoughtful questions, learning about animal diets, safety protocols, and the important role of wildlife conservation and animal care. This real-world experience aligned with science and speaking/listening standards as students engaged in discussion, observation, and reflection.

This field trip reminded us that learning can happen anywhere. Through exploration, curiosity, and shared experiences, students strengthened their understanding of science, teamwork, and community while creating lasting memories. We look forward to many more monthly adventures that bring classroom standards to life in exciting and meaningful ways.