Improve The Zoos (ITZ) Group Supports Beardsley Zoo
In Ridgefield, Connecticut, a group of fourth graders from Barlow Mountain Elementary School created a meaningful organization about zoos.
Originally, in 2018, the seven students in 3rd grade thought that there should not be any zoos because they thought zookeepers were hurting the animals. Those seven friends: Evan Sherling, Cathryn Mills, Camryn Art, David Myers, Gavin Mclaughlin, Malina Patel, and Rocco Lanzisero set out to annihilate the zoos. However, due to extensive research and critical thinking, they learned that zoos actually prevent animals from getting to the point of extinction.
After that, they found a local zoo to support. They sold pins at their school store. Now they have expanded their merchandise to include bookmarks and keychains. All proceeds will be donated to the Beardsley Zoo at the end of the school year.
On April 23, 2019 Mr. Knox, head educator of the Beardsley Zoo, and Mrs. Clarke visited Barlow Mountain Elementary School. They educated the 3rd and 4th graders about BeeZee (The zoo ambassador bobcat) and the zoo with videos and through a question and answer session. “The 3rd and 4th graders learned a lot from Mr. Knox and Mrs. Clarke, and I’m really glad they came,” says Malina. Mr. Knox and Mrs. Clarke were impressed with the students’ initiative, research, critical thinking, and desire to act on their beliefs in order to make the world a better place.
What are these fourth graders planning in the future?
“Our goal is to raise $400 by the end of the year,” says Camryn. ITZ has already raised $226.66.
“We love the fact that we're helping animals. It just feels good to help living things!” says Evan.
“We just want the animals to feel safe and at home,” says David.
“Together we know we can make it work by sticking together.” says the ITZ group.
If you would like to make a donation, you may contact Barlow Mountain Elementary School for details.