Policies & ProceduresThe Learning Loop is a behind-the-scenes area and the following policies are in place for your safety as well as the safety of the animals. Review the policies below to ensure your class is prepared for their trip.
Education Programs will take place on
The Learning Loop
Admission to the main floor of the Aquarium is not included.
All programs will begin and end on time.
Our programs begin promptly at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Plan on arriving 15 minutes early. Please understand that programs will end at the scheduled time even if you are late.
All chaperones and teachers MUST remain with their assigned environmental educator at all times.
Many of the spaces on The Learning Loop are accessible by staff only. If someone in the group becomes seperated, they may be unable to reconnect with their group without a staff escort.
No horseplay.
Students on The Learning Loop have the privilege of being over the top of a few large exhibits. In order to ensure the safety of the students and the animals, we have a strict “no horseplay” policy. Ultimately, teachers are responsible for the discipline and welfare of the students.
No chewing gum allowed.
Due to the close proximity of the animals, chewing gum is not allowed on The Learning Loop.
The chaperone ratio is strictly enforced.
In order to maintain the integrity of our education programs and comply with our capacity limits we require that teachers and parents adhere to our chaperone ratio*.
Pre-K - 1st grade: 1 chaperone per every 5 students
2nd - 4th grade: 1 chaperone per every 7 students
5th – 12th grade: 1 chaperone per every 10 students
Chaperone ratios include the lead teacher.
* Additional chaperones will not be allowed. Exceptions must be approved for students with special needs who require a paraprofessional. The chaperone ratio is the maximum number of adults allowed, you may bring fewer adults.
Lunch time* is offered for morning programs.
Morning programs include a time for your students to enjoy lunch on our premises. * Students and adults must bring their own lunch. There will not be an opportunity to purchase lunch during the education program.
Children under four years old are not permitted on The Learning Loop.
Children under four years old are not permitted to participate in education programs due to safety precautions.
Please note: we have no accommodations for younger children under four years of age.
Younger/older siblings will not be permitted to participate in education programs.
Education programs are age/grade-appropriate. Teachers and chaperones are not allowed to bring children not enrolled in the participating class(es).
Dress comfortably and wear walking shoes.
Education programs include a walking tour. Rubber-soled shoes are recommended. Heels, flip-flops and roller shoes (shoes with retractable wheels) are not permitted in some behind-the-scenes areas.
Students are not permitted to wear or carry hats, cameras, cell phones, book bags, etc. on The Learning Loop.
Your group may be in behind-the-scenes areas where loose items can potentially pose a safety hazard. All necessary materials (including writing supplies) are provided by the Aquarium. Additional items will be collected and stored until departure.
Remain on the bus upon arrival.
A member of the education staff will meet each bus, greet the contact person and provide instructions on unloading. Please do not allow your students to unload off of the bus before instructed to do so by your assigned environmental educator.
Notify us of the special needs of your students.
It is our goal to ensure that every student has a memorable experience. With ample notice, we will do our best to accommodate the special needs your students may have.
Deposits are required to hold a reservation and final payment is due 30 days prior to your visit.
We require a $50 non-refundable deposit, per date, to hold your reservation. Deposits will be credited toward your final balance. You will receive an email confirmation/invoice at the time of your reservation. The final payment for your group must be received 30 days prior to your visit or your reservation will be cancelled for non-payment. Any payments for additional students must be made 48 hours prior to your visit. Please review our full payment policy before making your reservation.
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