Embryology Registration Opens January 19, 2026
Session 1 Registration - Training begins Feb. 11 (beginner) Feb. 12 (advanced) | Incubation Feb. 24 - March 20, 2026
Session 2 Registration - Training begins March 3 (beginner) March 5 (advanced) | Incubation April 21 - May 15, 2026
Embark on an exciting journey of discovery with our in-school enrichment program, 4-H Embryology in the Classroom! Designed for pre-K through high school teachers, this immersive experience brings the wonders of life right into your classroom, fostering a hands-on and engaging learning environment. We’ll provide you with the resources, skills, and knowledge you need to successfully hatch chicken eggs with your students.
What's Included?
The $28 registration cost covers:
- Training session (beginner & advanced options available)
- Incubator
- Egg turner
- Learning aids (posters, books, etc.)
- Chick feed
- Cheese cloth for incubator
- 18 fertilized eggs
- Assistance in finding homes for hatched chicks
Teacher Responsibilities:
- Attend a synchronous virtual training (beginner & advanced options are available).
- Pick up equipment and eggs on designated dates.
- Furnish a heat lamp, feeder, waterer, and box with bedding for hatched chicks.
- Assist in finding homes for hatched chicks.
- Return equipment in clean condition on designated date.
- Provide classroom demographic data.
- Complete program evaluation & provide student demographics.
Pick the Session that Works for You:
- Session 1: February 17, 2026 - March 20, 2026 (register by 1/30)
- Session 2: April 13, 2026 – May 15, 2026 (register by 2/16)
Our supplies are limited, so registration is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration opens at midnight on January 19, 2025 – and registration tends to fill up very quickly. We must receive your online form and payment before registration is considered complete. Fee waivers are available upon request.
Bring the magic of life sciences to your classroom, inspire curiosity, and create unforgettable learning experiences. Don't miss this egg-citing opportunity to integrate hands-on education into your curriculum!
Secure your spot on January 20 and let the adventure begin!
Important Dates:
2025 Session 1
- Feb 11 | 4:30-6:30pm | Virtual Beginner Training (ISBE PDHs available)
- Feb 12 | 4:30-6:00pm | Virtual Advanced Training (ISBE PDHs available)
- Feb 17 | 3-5:00pm | Equipment & Supply Pick-Up; Check out teaching aids (optional)
- Feb 23 | 3-5:00pm | Egg Pick-Up
- Feb 24 | Incubation Begins (Set eggs in AM)
- March 16-19 | Hatch Days
- March 20 | 12-4:00pm | Drop-Off Equipment & Chicks (those without homes)
- March 20 | 5:00-6:00pm | Chick Adoption
2025 Session 2
- Mar 3 | 4:30-6:30 pm | Virtual Beginner Training (ISBE PDHs available)
- Mar 5 | 4:30-6:00 pm | Virtual Advanced Training (ISBE PDHs available)
- Apr 13 | 3-5:00 pm | Equipment & Supply Pick-Up; Check out teaching aids (optional)
- Apr 20 | 3-5:00 pm | Egg Pick-Up
- Apr 21 | Incubation Begins (Set eggs in AM)
- May 11-14 | Hatch Days
- May 15 | 12-4:00 pm | Drop-Off Equipment & Chicks (those without homes)
- May 15 | 5:00-6:00 pm | Chick Adoption
Locations:
Pick-ups and drop-offs can be done at Illinois Extension branch offices in either Peoria or Tazewell Counties.
- Peoria Branch Office | 4810 N. Sheridan Road, Peoria, IL 61614 | 309-685-3140
- Tazewell Branch Office | 1505 Valle Vista Blvd, Pekin, IL 61554 | 309-347-6614
Chick Adoption Info:
Interest Form
If you are interested in adopting chicks from our 4-H Embryology in the Classroom program, you may complete the online form or contact staff at the Peoria or Tazewell branch offices. Chicks will be White Leghorns, straight run. Pick-up time will be Friday, March 20 OR Friday, May 15 from 5-6pm at Tazewell Branch Office | 1505 Valle Vista Blvd, Pekin, IL 61554 | 309-347-6614
As they will be hatched by students and teachers in local schools, we are unable to guarantee a specific number that will be available. However, we will do our best to have an estimated number of available chicks by March 20 or May 15.
To get added to the adoption list, call the office and let us know the following information:
- Minimum # of chicks you’re willing to take
- Maximum # of chicks you’re willing to take
