Animal-Free Classrooms? PETA’s Hopes for Education in the Age of COVID-19

This fall, PETA hopes students returning to the classroom will find one thing missing: animals. Here’s why we must reshape and rethink education.

Take Action

Animals in Danger of Being Left Behind Amid COVID-19 School Closings

As students and teachers head home to avoid spreading the highly contagious coronavirus, classroom “pets” and other animals housed on campus may go weeks without care.

Take Action

These Comments About Betta Fish in the Classroom Show Why They Should Never Be Used as Class ‘Pets’

Betta fish are sensitive, complex beings—not teaching tools or classroom props.

Take Action © iStock.com/NERYX

Students Speak Up for Betta Fish: A Lesson in Citizenship and Social Justice

It’s easy to incorporate compassion for animals into your curriculum. Just take this kind teacher’s word for it!

Take Action

Why Fish Make Sad Classroom ‘Pets’

A tank can never rival a fish’s natural habitat—and they don’t belong in your classroom.

Take Action
TeachKind Meet the Team Banner

Meet the TeachKind Staff

Learn More

Animal Companions

These Comments About Class ‘Pets’ Show That Animals Don’t Belong in a Classroom

FreeImages.com/Heilig Szabolcs

There’s no excuse for putting an animal at risk.

Take Action

Compassionate Classroom Routines

Be prepared for whatever the school day throws at you with these kind practices.

Take Action martymousehouse.com

How to Teach About Animals and Responsibility Without Class ‘Pets’

There are so many ways to teach students about responsibility and animal care WITHOUT keeping live animals in your classroom. Check out the alternatives!

Take Action

The Dangers of Bringing Reptiles and Amphibians Into Your Classroom

Children becoming ill, animals suffering, and more. No kind teacher wants this.

Take Action

Make Dissection Digital!

Learn More

Considering Doing a Chick-Hatching Project? Please Don’t.

For educational value, chick-hatching projects miss the mark. Here’s what to do if your school is planning one.

Take Action

Live Hermit Crabs’ Shells Crushed, Hundreds Dead at Pet Trade Supplier

Here’s yet another reason why hermit crabs should never be used as classroom “pets.”

Take Action
Animal Companions

What’s the Problem With Classroom ‘Pets’?

Thinking about getting a classroom “pet”? Think again. Find out why the classroom is NOT a good place for animals.

Take Action

Get PETA Updates

Stay up to date on the latest vegan trends and get breaking animal rights news delivered straight to your inbox!

By submitting this form, you are agreeing to our collection, storage, use, and disclosure of your personal info in accordance with our privacy policy as well as to receiving e-mails from us.

 Ingrid E. Newkirk

“Almost all of us grew up eating meat, wearing leather, and going to circuses and zoos. We never considered the impact of these actions on the animals involved. For whatever reason, you are now asking the question: Why should animals have rights?” READ MORE

— Ingrid E. Newkirk, PETA President and co-author of Animalkind