Welcome to ZAP

  • Zoo After-School Program 4:05p.m.- 6:00p.m.

    ZAP is the Zoo Afterschool Program. Through a partnership between Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and Bancroft and Castelar elementary schools, ZAP provides inquiry-based STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) learning opportunities for students that will inspire interest, ability, and value for STEM in the natural world. In ZAP, students explore interests through handson lessons, learn life skills, and practice art and athletics

    Program Information

    • Program begins at 4:05 p.m. Students are escorted from their classrooms immediately to after-school.
    • Program ends at 6:00 p.m. and all students must be picked up by 6:10 PM.
    • Pick up Times are from 4:05-4:15 or 6p.m.
    • Students will be provided homework time and a hot meal.
    • ZAP is a free program. All corresponding paperwork and agreements must be filled out and signed to participate in this program.
    • Face covering will be mandated inside buildings.

    Program Expectations

    • Students are expected to attend at least 60% of each month to stay enrolled in the program.
    • ZAP follows OPS Student Code of Conduct.
    • Students must be respectful of all zoo animals and visitors while on zoo field trips.
    • Inappropriate behavior may result in suspension or removal from the program.
    • Students must be picked up at 6:00 PM.
    • Pick up will be at your vehicle. Please remain in your vehicle and a staff member will release your student to your car. Parents will park in a designated pickup location outside of the school Due to health guidelines, parents are not allowed to enter the school building unless prior arrangements have been made.

    Health and Safety

    We remain focused on the safety and health of our animals, students, and staff. Classrooms and high touch surfaces will be sanitized before and after program. Students who are not feeling well, must stay home.

    This publication is supported in part by 21st Century Community Learning Center federal funds under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Act as amended.

ZAP Weekly Schedule

  • Weekly Schedule

    • Monday: Clubs The intent of an academic club is to generate enthusiasm for a topic while encouraging student involvement and achievement.
    • Tuesday: STEM Our Mission is building a stronger STEM community by connecting education and business development for tomorrow’s workforce
    • Wednesday: Literacy Educational literacy is more than just being able to read, write and spell, it is about students being able to interpret, react, articulate and express their thoughts.
    • Thursday: STEM Our Mission is building a stronger STEM community by connecting education and business development for tomorrow’s workforce
    • Friday Clubs/ Zoo Day We provide a rich learning environment and a Zoo full of acres, adventures, and animals

ZAP Mission Statement

  • Zoo Education Mission Statement

    "To inspire wonder, appreciation and awareness of the natural world through personal and unique experiences."


    ZAP Mission Statement

    "To provide inquiry based STEM learning opportunities for at-risk students with limited resources that will in spire interest, ability and value STEM in the natural world."