KNOXVILLE, Tenn.— Knoxville Zoo will again participate in Knox County Schools' Schooled for Success program on Wednesday, May 28 and Thursday, May 29. 

The Knox County Schooled for Success program is a career orientation for eighth-grade students. The
program includes a two-day internship with hundreds of East Tennessee employers including Knoxville Zoo. 

The students who have chosen Knoxville Zoo will spend the internship learning about different career options
within the zoo. Students will have the opportunity to meet animal keepers, commissary, clinic and education
staff, along with employees from many other departments. The students will also observe animal training and
receive behind-the-scenes tours of many zoo areas.

"We believe the documentation that states students who receive career guidance before high school are less
likely to drop out and hope to encourage their interest in learning," said Kevin Hils, director of education at Knoxville Zoo. "We are proud that students are interested in careers at Knoxville Zoo, with animals, and we hope to provide a great experience for each."

Knoxville Zoo is located off exit 392A from Interstate 40 West and is open every day except Christmas Day. The zoo is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education. Beginning May 26, the zoo is open everyday from 9:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.  Admission and ticket sales stop one-hour before the zoo closes. Next-day admission is free after 3 p.m. For more information, please call 865.637.5331 ext. 300 or visit www.knoxville-zoo.org.