Zookeepers talk to LHS students about careers in animal care

LACONIA — On Oct. 31, Laconia High School welcomed zookeepers Alison Shaw of Animal Kingdom at Disney and Thomas Anderson of the San Francisco Zoo, and Animal Care Manager Lauren Moulis of the Squam Lakes Science Center, for an animal careers and animal training panel discussion. Approximately 25 students attended the session, which was held during the Sachem Support Block period. The Animal specialists talked about the pros and cons of their careers, how to get into animal care and management, and answered questions about what their daily routines were like, if they had a chance to specialize with certain animals, and what classes to take in high school and college. In addition, Moulis brought along two animals for students to learn about: a red-tailed hawk and a groundhog, both of whom are ambassador animals at Squam Lakes Science Center.

Ivy Leavitt-Carlson, a biology teacher at LHS and a co-organizer of the event, said, “Interest in this event was high. My students look for biology-related careers, but don’t always know what’s out there. A chance to meet an animal trainer or zookeeper makes them think about a greater range of possibilities, and about the positives and negatives of these types of jobs.” Karen Anderson, a mathematics teacher who also organized the panel, added that “Our students don’t always go to college with a clear career in mind, and I thought they would benefit from a chance to talk with some professionals who really love their jobs.”

Junior Karisa Dumaine enjoyed the panel and learning more about careers involving animal handling. " Zoo keeping involves a lot more education than I'd originally thought. The process of becoming a zookeeper assures me that these animals are in good hands. It's a great potential career option for upcoming animal/science lovers."

This career panel took place as a component of the Sachem Support Block, a 48-minute block for students who need to meet with teachers or work on coursework. LHS also offers a variety of enrichments, ranging from yoga to college counseling. This panel was part of a series of activities that students can engage in to expand their horizons.

Laconia High School students heard from zookeepers and Squam Lakes Science Center about careers in that field on Oct. 31. (Courtesy photo)