Henry Doorly Zoo Expands Free Admissions for Title I Students Across Nebraska and Western Iowa
The Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium will offer additional free visits to Title I students, thanks to a gift from the Julie Morsman Schroeder Foundation. The program launches in October 2026 and targets schools in Nebraska and western Iowa.
Key Facts — free zoo visits
- The Julie Morsman Schroeder Foundation provided a gift to fund the program.
- Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium will offer more free admissions for Title I students.
- The program covers schools in Nebraska and western Iowa.
- The initiative is scheduled to begin in October 2026.
- Free visits aim to increase access to the zoo’s educational resources for low‑income students.
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Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium in Omaha will increase the number of free admissions available to Title I students throughout Nebraska and western Iowa, following a donation from the Julie Morsman Schroeder Foundation. The expansion is set to begin this fall, extending the zoo’s existing outreach to a broader group of low‑income schools.
The new program builds on earlier efforts that provided complimentary visits to students in the state’s most economically challenged districts, aiming to broaden access to the zoo’s educational resources.
Key details
The Julie Morsman Schroeder Foundation’s gift will fund additional free tickets for Title I schools, allowing more students to experience the zoo’s exhibits and aquarium without cost. The initiative covers schools across Nebraska and the western portion of Iowa, regions with a high concentration of Title I designations.
Zoo officials said the added capacity will be integrated into the existing scheduling system, ensuring that participating classrooms can book visits alongside regular ticket holders.
What it means for students
Students from Title I schools will have the opportunity to explore the zoo’s conservation exhibits, live‑animal presentations, and interactive learning stations at no charge. These experiences are designed to complement classroom curricula in science and environmental studies.
By removing the financial barrier, the program aims to increase exposure to wildlife education for learners who might otherwise lack such opportunities.
What happens next
Teachers and administrators from eligible schools are encouraged to coordinate with the zoo’s education department to schedule visits for the upcoming academic year.
- Contact the zoo’s education office to confirm eligibility and obtain booking guidelines.
- Submit a class roster and preferred dates at least four weeks in advance.
- Prepare pre‑visit lesson plans using the zoo’s curriculum resources.
- Attend the on‑site orientation session offered to teachers before the first visit.
- Provide post‑visit feedback to help the zoo assess the program’s impact.
As the free‑admission program rolls out, Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium hopes the expanded access will deepen students’ understanding of wildlife conservation and inspire future generations of environmental stewards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the source of funding for the expanded free zoo visits?
The program is funded by a gift from the Julie Morsman Schroeder Foundation. The foundation’s contribution enables additional free admissions for Title I students.
Which student groups will benefit from the new free admission program?
Title I students in Nebraska and western Iowa will receive free zoo admissions. These are students attending schools with high percentages of low‑income families.
When will the expanded free visits begin?
The free‑visit program launches in October 2026. It coincides with the zoo’s ongoing educational outreach efforts.
How might the free visits affect the zoo’s conservation funding model?
While the program provides complimentary entry, the zoo expects to offset costs through continued ticket sales, memberships, and donations. Increased student engagement may also boost long‑term donor support for conservation.
What educational outcomes are anticipated for participating students?
Students will gain hands‑on learning about wildlife and conservation topics. Over time, the experience aims to improve science literacy and inspire future environmental stewardship.
