Seniors enrolled in the Zoo Academy at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium gathered this week for a final ceremony celebrating the completion of their academy experience as they prepare for graduation. The event offered students a moment to pause, reflect on their years of hands-on learning in one of the country's premier zoological facilities, and look ahead to the futures they are building.

The Zoo Academy is a distinctive career pathway offered through Papillion La Vista Community Schools that immerses students in the daily operations, science, and conservation mission of the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Over the course of the program, students gain real-world experience in animal care, environmental science, and zoological education — learning alongside professionals in the field and developing skills that translate directly into college and career pathways in the life sciences.

For this year's seniors, the ceremony marked not just the end of a program, but the culmination of a formative chapter. The reflection shared among students spoke to how significantly the academy has shaped their perspectives and aspirations. As they prepare to walk across the graduation stage, Zoo Academy seniors carry with them a depth of hands-on experience that sets them apart.