BESTS Above-Level Testing
In-Person, Subject to Local School Policies
Every child deserves to learn something new every day, including the ones that ace every test. It's often the case that bright students are ready to learn things beyond the level of the grade they are in -- but how can you tell what level would be more appropriate for a particular student? One way, called above-level testing, is to give a younger student a test that was developed for older students. The Belin-Blank Exceptional Student Talent Search (BESTS) uses above-level testing to uncover information about a student's academic abilities and learning needs, helping parents and teachers discover what that student is ready to learn.
Learn more.
Coders' Lab
Online
Do you like logic and putting things in order? Are you interested in learning how to code or about how computers and technology affect our everyday lives? Our Coders’ Lab classes will teach you programming and help you discover how you can make a difference in the world through computer science. No prior computer science experience is necessary. Learn More
Curated Collections for Gifted Kids
Online
We've curated fun and engaging online educational experiences specifically for gifted and talented students. Our staff tried these out with our own gifted kids at home, so we know yours will love them. Even better, we've negotiated deep discounts for our community, and we're passing the savings on to you! Learn More
Enrichment Expeditions
Online
Are you looking for joyful and engaging online learning experiences? Do you know a bright elementary or middle school student who needs ways to make learning exciting and fun again? Would they like a chance to meet other like-minded kids? We've designed our Enrichment Expeditions to reconnect children with each other and to explore their interests, both online and offline. Expert instructors lead each class, and we send a fun kit with all the necessary supplies straight to your door. Enrichment Expeditions will help you shake up your pandemic routine from the comfort and safety of your home! Learn more.
Invent Iowa
Online
Have you noticed someone having a problem that you think you can fix? Do you have an idea for a product that will make the world a better place? Invent Iowa is the state's foremost competition for budding inventors and entrepreneurs! K-12 students can submit their inventions for a chance to show them off at the state invention convention. If you win big here, you'll earn a spot to represent Iowa at the National Invention Convention, where you will learn more about the invention process and compete for exciting prizes!
Learn more.
Recognition Ceremony
Canceled for 2021
We believe academic talents deserve to be celebrated, in much the same way that athletic or musical talents are celebrated! The Belin-Blank Center’s annual Recognition Ceremony honors the accomplishments of qualifying high-ability students and the teachers who have made a difference in their lives.
Learn more.
Weekend Enrichment Program
On Hiatus
Formerly known as WINGS, our Weekend Enrichment program is designed to supplement what elementary and junior high students are learning in school and give them a chance to explore their interests - or discover new ones! Weekend Enrichment consists of half-day enrichment classes for students in grades 2-8 that take place at the Belin-Blank Center on the University of Iowa campus. Classes in STEM, arts, and the humanities will cultivate students’ interest and spark their curiosity!
Learn more.
BESTS Above-Level Testing
In-Person, Subject to Local School Policies
Every child deserves to learn something new every day, including the ones that ace every test. It's often the case that bright students are ready to learn things beyond the level of the grade they are in -- but how can you tell what level would be more appropriate for a particular student? One way, called above-level testing, is to give a younger student a test that was developed for older students. The Belin-Blank Exceptional Student Talent Search (BESTS) uses above-level testing to uncover information about a student's academic abilities and learning needs, helping parents and teachers discover what that student is ready to learn.
Learn more.
Coders' Lab
Online
Do you like logic and putting things in order? Are you interested in learning how to code or about how computers and technology affect our everyday lives? Our Coders’ Lab classes will teach you programming and help you discover how you can make a difference in the world through computer science. No prior computer science experience is necessary. Learn More
Coding with Python
Online
Learn the Python programming language at your own pace, wherever you want, without worrying about class times or the pressure of grades. This is a terrific opportunity for talented and motivated students in grades 7-9 who like to learn on their own, with access to an expert forum to have their questions answered along the way. Start anytime, and enjoy access to the content through June 30, 2021. No prior computer science experience is necessary. Learn More
Enrichment Expeditions
Online
Are you looking for joyful and engaging online learning experiences? Do you know a bright elementary or middle school student who needs ways to make learning exciting and fun again? Would they like a chance to meet other like-minded kids? We've designed our Enrichment Expeditions to reconnect children with each other and to explore their interests, both online and offline. Expert instructors lead each class, and we send a fun kit with all the necessary supplies straight to your door. Enrichment Expeditions will help you shake up your pandemic routine from the comfort and safety of your home! Learn more.
Iowa Online AP® Academy
Online
Bright students are often ready for subject material beyond what is typical for their grade, but it is not always feasible for small or rural schools to offer advanced classes. The Iowa Online AP® Academy (IOAPA) provides free access to nearly 30 online advanced courses for Iowa students who do not have access to these courses in their schools. IOAPA classes include Advanced Placement® courses for high school students and high school-level courses for eligible middle school students.
Learn more.
Recognition Ceremony
Canceled for 2021
We believe academic talents deserve to be celebrated, in much the same way that athletic or musical talents are celebrated! The Belin-Blank Center’s annual Recognition Ceremony honors the accomplishments of qualifying high-ability students and the teachers who have made a difference in their lives.
Learn more.
Scholastic Art & Writing
Online
Creative high school students can submit their art and writing samples to the nation's most prestigious recognition program, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. As the Iowa and Midwest Region-at-Large Affiliate, we accept art and writing submissions for these two regions, judge those submissions, and hold an awards ceremony recognizing regional winners.
Learn more.
The Writers' Room
Online
The Writers' Room is a collection of creative writing classes for students who want to take their skills to the next level. Challenge yourself by exploring form, discussing creative writing fundamentals, and completing stimulating assignments. Receive individual feedback on your work from world-class faculty and graduates of the University of Iowa's famed writing programs. Learn how to give and receive artist-centered feedback with your peers and enjoy the benefits of building a community with other inspired young writers. Learn more.
The Academy for Twice-Exceptionality
In-Person, Subject to University of Iowa Policies
A college journey at the University of Iowa embraces meaningful academic experiences and the development of a host of important skills that includes independence, social-emotional maturity, effective communication, and career readiness. The Belin-Blank Center's Academy for Twice-Exceptionality is a new program that partners with neurodiverse college students to foster and support these experiences and skills and enhance community engagement as an Iowa Hawkeye.
Through the Academy for Twice-Exceptionality, we strive to ensure that neurodiverse students have a positive and fulfilling college experience through a focus on nurturing students’ talents while also creating a sense of community and helping students connect with resources from the Belin-Blank Center, the University of Iowa, and the broader community. We aim for your destination to be success! Learn more.
Bucksbaum Early Entrance Academy
In-Person, Subject to University of Iowa Policies
If you think you have to wait until you graduate high school to go to college, think again. The Bucksbaum Early Entrance Academy empowers high-achieving students to begin full-time on-campus study at the University of Iowa after their sophomore year of high school. We support you, and a cohort of your peers, every step of the way. Are you ready?
Learn more.
Coding with Python
Online
Learn the Python programming language at your own pace, wherever you want, without worrying about class times or the pressure of grades. This is a terrific opportunity for talented and motivated students in grades 7-9 who like to learn on their own, with access to an expert forum to have their questions answered along the way. Start anytime, and enjoy access to the content through June 30, 2021. No prior computer science experience is necessary. Learn More
Iowa Online AP® Academy
Online
Bright students are often ready for subject material beyond what is typical for their grade, but it is not always feasible for small or rural schools to offer advanced classes. The Iowa Online AP® Academy (IOAPA) provides free access to nearly 30 online advanced courses for Iowa students who do not have access to these courses in their schools. IOAPA classes include Advanced Placement® courses for high school students and high school-level courses for eligible middle school students.
Learn more.
Junior Science & Humanities Symposium
Online
The Iowa Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (Iowa-JSHS) program is not your average science fair! High school students compete for scholarships and recognition by presenting the results of their original research projects before a panel of judges and an audience of their peers. Students will also have the opportunity to visit cutting-edge university research labs, hear from university researchers about their work and career paths, and network with their peers.
Learn more.
Recognition Ceremony
Canceled for 2021
We believe academic talents deserve to be celebrated, in much the same way that athletic or musical talents are celebrated! The Belin-Blank Center’s annual Recognition Ceremony honors the accomplishments of qualifying high-ability students and the teachers who have made a difference in their lives.
Learn more.
Scholastic Art & Writing
Online
Creative high school students can submit their art and writing samples to the nation's most prestigious recognition program, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. As the Iowa and Midwest Region-at-Large Affiliate, we accept art and writing submissions for these two regions, judge those submissions, and hold an awards ceremony recognizing regional winners.
Learn more.
The Writers' Room
Online
The Writers' Room is a collection of creative writing classes for students who want to take their skills to the next level. Challenge yourself by exploring form, discussing creative writing fundamentals, and completing stimulating assignments. Receive individual feedback on your work from world-class faculty and graduates of the University of Iowa's famed writing programs. Learn how to give and receive artist-centered feedback with your peers and enjoy the benefits of building a community with other inspired young writers. Learn more.
