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Ohio’s Toledo Zoo has had community funding renewed following a successful scheme which aimed to develop a conservation-focused internship programme for local high school students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 26 Apr 2023
Ohio’s Toledo Zoo has had community funding renewed following a successful scheme which aimed to develop a conservation-focused internship programme for local high school students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Created to increase diversity and representation in the conservation field by offering paid summer internships, the zoo partnered with Toledo Public Schools to identify candidates based on diligence, creativity, and enthusiasm rather than language, education level, or academic standing.
The interns participated in research projects, developed professional skills, and gained confidence in applying for conservation positions, according to pre- and post-summer surveys.
According to Laura Kubiak, teacher at the Toledo Public Schools Natural Science and Technology Academy and a mentor for four of the conservation interns, the students returned to class with “enhanced communication andpublic speaking skills”, while also demonstrating “increased confidence levels, both socially and academically”.
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