Humane Education in the Schools

Our program is designed to prepare and empower the next generation with the knowledge and compassion necessary to provide for the animals that will be left in their care. Interactive school programs are available to public and private schools in the Coachella Valley. Our curriculum is grade specific and is based on California State Standards. Each presentation includes a visit with a live animal friend and educational handouts for students and parents. Presentations are available in English and Spanish.

Preschool/Kindergarten: This program uses basic pet care items and stuffed animals to convey what pets need to be happy and healthy.

First Grade: By using full student participation, this presentation continues the lesson of responsible pet care by using written words and pictures

Second Grade: Focuses on dog bite prevention and safe behavior around dogs. Students view the award winning BCSPCA's "Bite Free" video and then the message is reinforced by role playing dog safety scenarios.

Third Grade: Based on the City Wildlife unit in Open Court Reading. This reading program is used by PSUSD. Students learn about our desert environment and play a game called Desert Bingo.

Fourth Grade: This lesson stresses the importance of respect, kindness and responsibility towards all living things. Students finish the program by playing a fun game called the Spelling Game.

Fifth Grade: Provides information about the effects of animal overpopulation and strategies for solving the related problems. We emphasize the importance of spay and neuter in this program.

Middle School: For these grade levels we utilize Flying WILD programs developed by the Council for Environmental Education. These programs about birds are correlated to National Science Education Standards for middle school students. We also offer a PowerPoint driven presentation, specifically designed for 6th grade math.

High School: Careers With Animals is a PowerPoint presentation and is perfect for a "Career Day" event or just a classroom visit. Pet First Aid and Disaster Preparedness is another presentation option. Students will learn and practice lifesaving first aid and CPR techniques for dogs and cats.

Service Learning: Our clinic and animal shelter is a great place for students to learn and experience the functions in an animal medical center. Animal Samaritans is currently involved in the job shadowing program with the Health Academy at Coachella Valley High School. We also welcome veterinary assistant interns from ROP in Indio. Please contact our Education Department if you are interested in providing this hands-on opportunity to your students.