Item - 2021.ZB14.8

The Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo received the report (January 29, 2021) from the Manager, Learning and Engagement, Toronto Zoo for information.

This report focuses on the primary activities and achievements of the Learning and Engagement Branch at the Toronto Zoo for the year 2020. Learning and Engagement oversees a wide variety of different programs throughout the year that support key components of the Strategic Plan and further educational goals. These include school program offerings and teacher resources, as well as a roster of public programs for a variety of audiences/ages and, in a typical year, summer camps. In 2020, our programs were heavily impacted by the COVID pandemic, yet through creativity and a dedicated effort, we were able to deliver new programs that were consistent with the needs and interests of our guests, while also adhering to COVID guidelines. Leading up to the pandemic restrictions, the Learning & Engagement Branch was anticipating another record breaking year and while we were unable to deliver programs as planned, we were able to pivot and develop new programs and experiences that have received many accolades. Through our revised programs and experiences (combined onsite and virtual) we were able to reach an estimated 39,202 participants and generate $196,063 in revenue.

Also, included is a summary of curatorial outreach programs which are administered by the Wildlife and Science Division.