ZooTeens

Be a part of the conservation of wildlife worldwide!

The Zoo Boise ZooTeen program inspires teens – aged 13-17 – across Idaho to increase and share their knowledge of animals, conservation, and the environment. As a ZooTeen, you’ll focus on educating Zoo Boise guests and will gain experience with teaching, leadership, and public speaking. You’ll also learn about animals and raise awareness about conservation projects supported by the Zoo Boise Conservation Fund.

ZooTeen Duties

As a ZooTeen, you will work to educate Zoo Boise guests while raising awareness and funds for the conservation of wildlife worldwide. ZooTeens provide informal educational presentations for zoo guests, assist in the operation of seasonal exhibits, assist with summer camps for children, and support Zoo Boise’s wildlife conservation mission.

2026 ZooTeen Calendar

Mon 12/01/2025: Online application opens

Tues 01/13/2026: Volunteer Open House, 5:30 – 7:30PM
[Not mandatory, but a great way to get questions answered and meet current ZooTeens]

🚨🚨🚨 Fri 02/13/2026: Applications close at 5PM MST

Thurs 02/19/2026: Applicants will receive invite to interview if all application materials are submitted

Mon 02/23/2026 – Thurs 02/26/2026: ZooTeen interviews at the zoo [4 – 4:45PM]

Sat 02/28/2025: Last date for returning ZooTeens to notify us of intent to return

Mon 03/02/2026 – Thurs 03/05/2026: ZooTeen interviews at the zoo [4 – 4:45PM]

Thurs 03/12/2026: Notification of acceptance by 5PM

Sun 03/15/2026 – Thurs 04/30/2026: Online ZooTeen Training Classroom open

⚠️ Negative TB test is due on or before practice day! Keep in mind, TB tests require you to return 48 hours after initial visit.

Sat 05/16/2026 or Sun 05/17/2026 or Sat 05/30/26: ZooTeen Practice Day for first and second year Teens, 8:30AM – 4:30PM
[Mandatory for first and second year ZooTeens – must choose one]

Mon 06/01/2026: ZooTeen season starts

Sun 08/09/2026: Last day of summer ZooTeen program

Tuition

$125 [non-refundable] tuition fee includes:

1. Daily mentoring and supervision of ZooTeens by skilled Zoo Boise staff members
2. Initial orientation and continuous daily training in:
   • Professionalism & job skills
   • Leadership
   • Public speaking
   • Communication skills
   • Animal biology, wildlife habitats, and ecology
   • Wildlife conservation
   • Career development
3. Program supplies & materials:
   • One Zoo Boise uniform shirt
   • End-of-summer party
   • Volunteer morning events
   • Orientation and training
4. Opportunities for FUN!

The ZooTeen program is generously sponsored by: