Burlington Science Center Blog

The Burlington Science Center houses approximately 60 different types of live animals.  We hold both Massachusetts and U.S. Fish and Wildlife permits/licenses to utilize protected wildlife for educational purposes.  The animals are cared for by Wendy Pavlicek, along with the assistance of High School Science Center Aides.  Animals are loaned out to classrooms, used as classroom pets, featured in educational programs, and cared for by Burlington families during vacations, holidays, and the summer.  Proper care sheets, supplies, and verbal instructions are distributed with each animal that leaves the Science Center.  All animals are delivered by Science Center staff.

 

Classroom Pets

 

The Science Center will provide the animal, cage, food and shavings for the year.  Your class will provide all the care and attention, including long weekends and vacations.  Ms. Pavlicek will do a short presentation on the animal, provide some good care tips and spend some time answering student questions.

 

Animal Loans

 

 (Up to 2-3 weeks):  The animal, cage, food, bedding and a care sheet are delivered upon teacher request.  Each animal comes with a hands-on kit, filled with lots of educational materials for your class.  Ms. Pavlicek will provide a short care lesson and answer questions if possible.  A great addition to your class for observations and activities.

 

Special Programs

Ms. Pavlicek offers a variety of classroom animal programs for your Science Curriculum units.  These are typically using animals that a classroom teacher can not have as a loan.  Animals include: hawk, owl, alligator, large snakes, adult snapping turtle, hedgehog, ferrets and many more!

Fish

We will provide the tank, filter, fish and food for your class. 

Animal Policy

The Science Center has developed an animal policy to insure the safety of the students and teachers in Burlington.  Classroom teachers are to check with the Science Center before allowing a student to bring in an animal from home.

Click below to view the policy.

science-center-animal-policy2

Science Center Aides and Volunteers

High School students are welcome during the school year to assist us with  daily tasks.  They can take our class during a study period and gain extra curricular credits.  Students help with things from animal care to packaging materials.  We also have several town volunteers that come in to lend us a hand throughout the year.  We greatly appreciate all the help from the students and volunteers.  They are an invaluable asset to our program!