Summer Laureate Returns to UA Little Rock with 21 New Classes for Young Learners
For 47 years, the Summer Laureate/University for Youth program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock has provided gifted elementary students with unique summer learning opportunities. This July, classrooms across UA Little Rock will transform into laboratories, design studios, fantasy worlds, and musical stages as students gather for the annual program. For two weeks, the campus will buzz with curiosity as young learners from across Arkansas explore subjects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and discovery.
Summer Laureate is designed for curious and motivated learners in grades K–6 who thrive when given opportunities to ask questions, solve complex problems, and pursue topics in depth. The two-week summer program, hosted by the UA Little Rock Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education, offers a uniquely engaging mix of science, engineering, mathematics, language arts, history, and much more.
“Summer Laureate is one of the longest-running campus enrichment programs in the U.S.,” said Dr. Ann Robinson, center director. “Yet, each year, the creativity and innovation of the teachers, the program administrators, and the students make the learning experience fresh for everyone. For nearly half a century, UA Little Rock has embraced the program and celebrated its contributions to our community. We are delighted to be a part of the university’s centennial year.”
Each summer brings a new lineup of classes, allowing students fresh opportunities to explore new passions, strengthen their talents, and discover new interests to carry with them long after summer ends. This year’s program features 21 new classes designed to spark curiosity through subjects and themes not typically found in traditional classrooms. Inspired by children’s interests and current trends, the curriculum is reimagined each year to keep students engaged and excited to learn.
Many classes blend multiple subjects into one hands-on course, encouraging students to make connections across disciplines. Young learners might investigate insects through art and science or explore world cultures through music and language. Older students can combine engineering and artificial intelligence, travel through ancient civilizations and mythology, or develop strategic thinking through chess and coding.
“Summer Laureate gives young learners the freedom to explore new ideas, take creative risks, and discover new interests alongside peers who share their curiosity,” said Dr. Monica Meadows, assistant professor in the School of Education. “It is exciting to watch students engage with topics they may not encounter during the regular school year through fun, meaningful learning experiences. During Summer Laureate, students are not simply learning about a topic; they are designing, creating, questioning, and bringing their ideas to life.”
The program’s influence extends beyond its students. What sets the program apart is its team of instructors, which includes graduate students in gifted and talented education, experienced classroom teachers, and subject-matter experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the classroom. For graduate students, the program provides hands-on experience designing curriculum, teaching alongside veteran educators, and translating gifted education theory into classroom practice, helping build a strong pipeline of gifted and talented education teachers for Arkansas classrooms.
Beyond academic enrichment, the program fosters a vibrant community where advanced learners can connect with peers who share their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. As Summer Laureate enters its 47th year, it continues to inspire young learners while helping cultivate the next generation of gifted and talented educators, strengthening gifted education across Arkansas.