PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia City Council presented a resolution on Thursday to honor and congratulate the first class of a groundbreaking initiative giving high school students a chance to learn all about careers in zoology and conservation.
The resolution honoring the West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars was introduced by Council member Jamie Gauthier, and she was joined at the podium by a lizard named Bili — a prehensile-tailed skink to be more precise.
“Congratulations to the inaugural class of scholars on making a difference while setting yourself
up for success as you move into adulthood,” said Gauthier. “We are all so proud of you.”
Bili the skink was accompanied by Alexis Brown, the chief people officer at the Philadelphia Zoo, who said the West Philadelphia Scholars Program works with high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, and then further internship opportunities as the students matriculate into college.
“They get hands-on , really intense mentorship from staff and they have the opportunity to work and engage with the public which we know is an important skill,” said Brown.
The program is a partnership among the Philadelphia Zoo, local schools and stakeholders to offer high school students immersive, hands-on experiences in zoological sciences, veterinary medicine, environmental education, and wildlife conservation.