As more than half a million families in Los Angeles brace for school closures due to a possible three-day strike by unionized LAUSD workers, the Los Angeles Zoo is giving students a place to spend the day with free entry.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens will offer free admission to currently enrolled K-12 students during school closures.
Companions must pay $5.
Students will be required to show proof of enrollment, such as a school report, student card, or school report.
Admission will only be offered on days when the strike closes schools, the Los Angeles Zoo said.
Students from kindergarten to grade five can also take part in the “Community Safari Day”, during which arts and crafts will be supervised by zoo staff.
Community Safari Day program details
When: Tuesday, March 21 through Thursday, March 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended morning hours from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and afternoon hours from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: $50 per student
Note: Los Angeles Zoo staff advise that space is limited and advance online registration is required.
If the strike ends earlier, the $50 will be refunded, but individual cancellations will not. More information here.
LAUSD is also preparing plans for students in the event of a strike, such as sending home educational kits, supplies and technology devices for students to use. The area also offers take-out meals.
The Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation is also offering extended hours at 16 city of Los Angeles parks. You can find more information here.
The teachers’ union UTLA has shown solidarity with the SEIU, which represents some 30,000 cafeteria workers, bus drivers and other staff in the district.
Both groups are calling for better wages, benefits, hours for part-timers, and better campus maintenance.
The district says it is offering 5% salary increases over the next few years, as well as bonuses.
Read this article in English on our sister station NBCLA.