The following is a Press release:

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (BOPN) has announced plans to open a free nature preschool through Universal PreK at the Franklin Park Zoo in September 2024.

BOPN and Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo are nonprofit organizations that share a mission to connect people with nature. BOPN combines early childhood and environmental education, bringing families together in community to give children a joyful childhood under the loving guidance of dedicated teachers. BOPN’s nature-immersive programs operate outdoors, and BOPN is fully responsible for managing and running programs at its host sites across the Boston area.

Education and conservation are the cornerstones of Zoo New England’s mission, and the organization strives to build empathy in visitors of all ages by providing opportunities for them to more deeply appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

BOPN Executive Director Sarah Besse commented, “We were thrilled that the Franklin Park Zoo has agreed to host our universal prek preschool class. Our goals are to promote children’s physical and mental health, encourage environmental stewardship, and to develop habits of mind such as curiosity, creativity, and resilience.” She continued, “Our preschool at the zoo will inspire children to understand, appreciate, and protect the natural world. This is an ideal pairing.”

Cynthia Mead, Executive Vice President of External Affairs at Zoo New England, added, “The Franklin Park Zoo is excited to welcome the young explorers of BOPN to our zoo. When children learn about the natural world they ignite their sense of wonder for nature and can develop a lifelong love for wildlife and the outdoors. We are thrilled to be a partner in this important initiative, and look forward to many days of curiosity, discovery, and imagination as the students immerse themselves in nature.”

Registration for BOPN’s preschool at the Franklin Park Zoo is through Boston’s Universal PreK. Email upkzoo@bopn.org to learn more.

About Boston Outdoor Preschool Network:

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (BOPN) is a nonprofit organization focused on nature-based early education. Our school year and summer programs in Boston, Milton, Malden, and metro-west combine early childhood and environmental education. Our goals are to promote children’s physical and mental health, encourage environmental stewardship, and to develop habits of mind such as curiosity, initiative, persistence, creativity, problem-solving, and responsibility. We are committed to increasing equitable access to nature. Learn more at www.bopn.org.

About the Zoo New England:

Zoo New England manages Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham. Both are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Zoo New England's mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education.