Discovery Spotlight
Discovery Spotlight is the North Carolina Zoo's large-group program experience, designed to bring entire grade levels together for an engaging, conservation-centered presentation. This program will highlight the different sections of the North Carolina Zoo while students learn about real conservation projects tied to each continent represented. It's a powerful way to connect your students to wildlife science happening right now, all around the world.
How can I purchase a Discovery Stoplight Assembly Program?
Discovery Spotlight Assembly Program, visit our eTix ticketing site to view availability and purchase your program and provide additional details. (Insert Link here) Unfortunately, we are not able to reserve dates for school groups and the educational programs are first come first served. You can however reach out to schoolprograms@nczoo.org to see if a date has additional availability if it says sold out or unavailable, as we do have some additional availability not listed on the eTix site. Program bookings are not confirmed until you receive an email confirmation letter from a member of the North Carolina Zoo Education Team containing your program details.
What Discovery Spotlight Programs do you currently offer?
We offer one assembly program designed for large student groups.
Who are these programs for?
These assembly style programs are designed for 3rd-12th grade students ranging in size from 30-200 students per program.
How long do these programs last?
Each program will last approximately 45 minutes.
Will there be live animals?
Many programs feature live Animal Ambassadors. Live animals cannot be guaranteed due to feeding schedules, vet visits, weather, etc... However, we can guarantee a hands-on experience through activities and animal biofacts!
What price will the program be?
The Discovery Spotlight Assembly Program is $200 per program for on-site at the North Carolina Zoo.
For an off-site Discovery Spotlight Program are $350 per program.
- We are piloting a new payment format that allows you to either pay for your program at the time of booking or pay anytime within 30 days after your initial reservation. When purchasing your program, you will see a section titled “Ticket Payment Options.”
- If you are ready to pay immediately, select “Pay in 1 payment.
- If you want to reserve your date now and pay anytime within 30 days, select “Split into 1 payment”.
- If you choose the “Split into 1 payment” option to pay later:
- You will be prompted to enter card information to hold your reservation.
- You may change the payment method later if needed.
- We are not able to offer refunds or exchanges
- You will receive additional instructions on how to access the Pay Later feature in your account.
Questions? Contact us at schoolprograms@nczoo.org.
Are there discounts available?
Yes! Please contact schoolprograms@nczoo.org to see if you qualify for our Tier 1 County or Title 1 School discounts.
How early can I begin booking?
Program booking for the 2026-2027 school year begins July 1st. We require at least 1 month advance booking for our Discovery Stop Mini Programs.
Can you sign a contract with my county/school/group?
Unfortunately, we are not able to sign any contracts or agreements. Please reach out to schoolprograms@nczoo.org to determine if there are other options for you.