Because of student allergies my school like a lot of others no longer allows pets in the classroom. But if you are fortunate enough to work in a school that does allow pets, Pets in the Classroom could be a great resource for you.
Pets in the Classroom provides classroom grants to teachers who would like to have mammal or fish pets in their classrooms. In addition to the grant program, Pets in the Classroom offers some good suggestions about creating pet-centered lessons for elementary school students. Even if you do not have a classroom pet you can still utilize some of the lesson ideas in your classroom.