Step into the arena with Build & Battle Robotics (LEGO Edition), where creativity meets competition! Working in small teams, students will use LEGO robotics kits to design and build their own battling machines—whether it’s a powerful pusher, a clever wedge, or a spinning striker. Along the way, they’ll learn the engineering behind gearing, traction, and armor as they tweak and improve their designs. The camp culminates in fast-paced, ring-style matches that bring excitement and strategy to life. Packed with action and hands-on learning, this camp is the perfect way for kids to dive into robotics while having a blast in friendly, high-energy competitions!

Set sail on a hands-on engineering adventure in RC Boats & ROV Basics! Students will dive into the science of buoyancy, hull design, and waterproofing as they work in teams to test and modify remote-control boats. Along the way, they’ll experiment with stability, thrust, and maneuverability before putting their creations to the test in timed trials and obstacle challenges. If a pool or pond is available, the final day shifts outdoors for exciting capstone runs; otherwise, indoor test bins keep the action flowing. With plenty of teamwork, problem-solving, and splashy fun, this camp makes STEM unforgettable.

Our cheer program is divided into divisions. Divisions 1-4 are perfect for beginner to intermediate athletes ages 4 to 18 years old. Athletes ages 6 and up with perfect attendance are eligible to tryout for a higher division at the end of each season. Classes start at $10 a week for lower levels. Athletes attend practice once a week where they learn the fundamentals of cheerleading from certified coaches. Each semester, teams learn and perform at least one full routine for parents and at competitions. These events aren’t mandatory for beginner and intermediate classes, but they are a lot of fun! State competitions are open to all levels and qualifying teams have the chance to compete at national events.

Since 1946, students across our region have participated in Youth in Government (YIG), an immersive four-day experience that includes focused discussions on current issues, a wide variety of social events, engaging evening activities, time for small-group reflection, and hands-on leadership development. The program simulates real government and is designed to be as close to the real thing as possible, giving students the opportunity to experience the legislative, judicial, media, and leadership processes firsthand while developing critical thinking, public speaking, collaboration, and leadership skills. The program starts in late fall when students in grades 8–12 join or form a YIG delegation, which will hold meetings leading up to the conference. High school students may serve as legislators, judges, attorneys, lobbyists, media representatives, or cabinet members. Eighth-grade students begin by participating in Leadership Corps, where they experience all areas of the program to help them choose how they would like to continue their YIG journey in high school. At the end of October, delegates from all over the state come together for the in-person LAUNCH event to prepare for the four-day conference held in early January. How can you participate? Delegates indicate their top three program area choices that align with their grade level and are assigned based on space availability, delegation balance, registration date, and other factors. Program areas include: 8th Grade: LEADERSHIP CORPS: All 8th grade students participate in Leadership Corps. Students explore all YIG program areas by creating and debating bills, arguing a court case, and writing media articles. 9–12 Grade: LEGISLATURE: Prepare a bill on an issue important to you, participate in committee hearings and floor debates, and vote on which bills should become law. COURTS: Research assigned cases and present arguments in a mock trial or appeals case. Judges preside over trials and make decisions regarding legal arguments and objections. 10–12 Grade: NATIONAL ISSUES FORUM: Research, present, and debate policy solutions to current national or international issues chosen by students. LOBBYING: Advocate for legislation on behalf of special interest groups. MEDIA: Research, create, and write articles for a daily newspaper, news releases, and broadcasts using both print and digital formats.