Zoo, LRSD Engage Students to Create Solutions at Inaugural #ZooEXCELathon2019

LITTLE ROCK (Feb. 25, 2019) – The Little Rock Zoo is inviting young, innovative minds with Little Rock School District to come together to solve community-related challenges at the #ZooEXCELathon2019 held tomorrow, February 25, 2019, in Café Africa.

The event opens at 9:30 a.m. with remarks given by Mayor Frank D. Scott, Jr. followed by addresses from LRSD Superintendent Mike Poore and Little Rock Zoo Director, Susan Altrui.   

About 100 high school students will be divided into small groups and challenged to solve a Zoo related problem. The culmination of the #ZooEXCELathon2019 will have the student teams presenting their solutions to a panel of expert judges.  The judges will then determine and announce the top three (3) teams who will receive cash prizes.    

The ZooEXCELathon will provide an opportunity for students to create a solution for a real world business issue.  The small group format will emphasize inventive strategies and will utilize the students’ STEM talents and skill.   The fast-paced setting will encourage imaginative thinking while providing space and time for the students to explore new topics. 

Sponsoring organizations for the #ZooEXCELathon2019 are the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, Little Rock Education Association, Safe Foods, Little Rock Tech Park, the Little Rock Regional Chamber and Garver.    

To learn more about the Inaugural #ZooExcelathon2019, please contact llwilliams@littlerock.gov

About the Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you and a better future for all living things.  With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.  For more information, visit www.aza.org.