Elementary School Commuter Opportunities

Grades 3-6

Junior Scholars Academy (JSA) is a summer commuter program designed specifically for bright elementary students who want to thoroughly explore a topic - all while having fun with other kids who share their enthusiasm for learning. Students with a deep curiosity, a love of learning, or a lot of talent in a particular area will feel right at home in JSA. Classes run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day for a full week. With past options like Harry Potter, STEAM, Mixed Media Art, Engineering, Virtual Reality, Programming (and more!), we're sure to have something for any curious child.

About the Program

JSA takes place at the Blank Honors Center.

  • Session 1: July 6-10, 2026
  • Session 2: July 13-17, 2026

Students will spend their days at the Belin-Blank Center on the University of Iowa campus, learning all about one of their favorite subjects, in a class full of other bright kids their age who share their enthusiasm for learning. Each day will be filled with activities, opportunities to develop friendships, and excitement for learning!

The JSA program is designed to challenge students in their areas of interest and strength. Students explore a single advanced level topic for the entire week. Class sizes are small, and they take place on the University of Iowa campus, giving your child access to valuable university resources and experts. Our instructors are vetted professionals, including classroom teachers, local artists, graduate students, and professors who have the expertise to delve into a subject at an advanced level, while keeping it accessible for the age group.

We encourage careful reading of the course descriptions when choosing classes. Specific questions about course content should be directed to summer@belinblank.org.

It was amazing and I learned so much. I also loved being surrounded by kids who all have the same passion for learning.

JSA Student

Classes

Art

Grades 3-4

7/6/2026 - 7/10/2026

In this course we will be working and creating with various tools and materials. Projects will include drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, printmaking and more. On our last day we will be screen printing our own t-shirts with a design that we've created as a class!

$480.00
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Magical Potions

Grades 3-4

7/6/2026 - 7/10/2026

When science and creativity meld, it’s pure magic! In this class, we will be using science to create some really magical outcomes, and then researching the magic to find out what’s really happening. Through the use of the scientific method, we will experiment with a variety of different chemicals and materials, looking to create that magical concoction! We will also keep a notebook like a real scientist to write hypotheses, record data, discuss correlations, and conclusions. Come ready to be amazed!

$480.00
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Creative Writing

Grades 5-6

7/6/2026 - 7/10/2026

Discover your inner writer while exploring a variety of creative writing formats! Students will get to explore their creativity through multiple prompts and genres. They will also visit literary sites likes the iconic Prairie Lights bookstore and more. Activities will center around stimulating the creative process, as well as practicing and honing your craft.

$480.00
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Intro to Advanced Math

Grades 5-6

7/6/2026 - 7/10/2026

This course is primarily designed around several famous mathematical ideas and the underlying mathematical principles that help to support student understanding. Examples include, but are not limited to: The Konigsberg Bridge Problem, Monty Hall’s Let’s Make a Deal Problem, the Probability of Winning the Powerball, Einstein’s Riddle, and the Binomial Theorem. Some of the specific topics covered include: Pascal’s Triangle, Sums of an Infinite Geometric Series, Probability of Independent Events, Logic, and Euler Paths.

$480.00
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Engineering

Grades 3-4

7/13/2026 - 7/17/2026

Dip your toes into the wonderful world of science and engineering. Together we will discover how to build towers that withstand earthquakes. You'll be a chemical engineer by designing your very own oil-spill-cleaning operation. We will explore everything about trajectory by doing fun Mechanical engineering experiments. Medical and biological engineering will show us where to find bacteria and how to make them visible, why different liquids have different densities, and what all of that means for us. Are you ready for an amazing week of science?

$480.00
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Math of Games

Grades 3-4

7/13/2026 - 7/17/2026

Get ready for fun and friendly competition as we learn the mathematical strategy behind playing games! Many mathematical topics will be explored such as probability, statistics, number theory, pattern analysis, geometry, and algebra. We will tackle the math behind games such as tic-tac-toe, Mastermind, Pachici (known in modern times as Parcheesi), Hearts, Risk, Settlers of Catan, Bridge and many, more. Playing games will take on new meaning when fun and mathematical thought come together. Please join us for this active, thought-provoking class!

$480.00
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Chemistry

Grades 5-6

7/13/2026 - 7/17/2026

Chemistry is what makes the world go round! We will investigate lots of different types of reactions—what makes them go, how to modify them, why some reactions are similar and others are not. Be prepared to spend the week in the lab so we can discover chemistry ourselves! Specifically, we will learn how to detect if a change is physical or chemical, perform tests that identify certain products of chemical reactions, and learn how to perform lots of fizzing, foaming, popping, and color changing chemical reactions.

$480.00
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Journalism

Grades 5-6

7/13/2026 - 7/17/2026

During this class, students will explore journalism by becoming reporters, storytellers, podcasters, editors, writers, and producers. We will delve into the vast variety of modern journalism and media examples with hands-on experience, including a visit the newsroom of the Daily Iowan, the University’s award-winning news publication, to get a glimpse into the world of collegiate journalism. Students will have opportunities to find their voice, tell unique stories, and investigate the world around them.

$480.00
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How to Apply

Ready to Apply? The application process is straightforward, but we recommend careful consideration of your child's academic strengths and interests when selecting a class. We're here to help with all the information you will need in order to complete the application.

Eligibility

Each class will have a grade range listed, students who are currently in those grades can apply to the class. They do not need to be in a talented and gifted program to apply. Qualified students will show a high level of interest in the topic, motivation to learn, and ability to positively contribute to a classroom environment.

Application Process

To apply online, parents and/or students respond to two prompts:

  • Please tell us about your student’s experience, skills, and/or interest in this area.
  • Is there anything else you’d like us to know about your student?

Selection

Applications will be reviewed by Belin-Blank Center faculty and staff. Program acceptance is based on a review of the student’s strengths and interests. Staff members work to ensure that the class is a good academic fit to nurture the student’s potential.

Selected students will be notified on a rolling basis within two weeks of submitting an application and generally no later than the end of May. Inactive applications may be cancelled to make room for students on the waitlist.

After You're Accepted

Get ready for lots of learning and tons of fun! Here you can find answers to all the questions you may have while making your plans to join us.

Cost & Financial Aid

Cost

Each student will pay a program fee of $480 per class. This fee covers tuition, books, and materials. Please note the fee for the program is not eligible for tax credits or other pre-tax reimbursements because it is an educational rather than child care program.

Payment Deadlines

You must either pay in full or have arranged monthly installments by the first day of the program in order to participate. All fees are payable to the Belin-Blank Center. Inactive applications may be cancelled to make room for students on the waitlist.

Payment Options

  1. Pay the entire amount on a credit card.
  2. Set up a payment plan through the application portal.

Financial Aid

If selected, you may apply for financial aid when you enroll your student in the program. Financial aid is awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, while funds are available. Eligibility is typically determined by qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. After your information is reviewed, a decision will be made, and you will receive an email regarding the amount of your award. Awards will be applied directly to your program fee.

Daily Schedule

Classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students must bring their own lunch, but lunch supervision is provided as part of the program.

Students must attend the full length of the program. Teachers plan instructional activities based on the scheduled time. Student attendance and participation are essential to receive the full benefit of instruction.

Cancellation Policy

If you must cancel, email summer@belinblank.org as soon as possible to decline your acceptance so a student on the waitlist may attend. 

  • 4+ Weeks: If a cancellation occurs at least four weeks before the class begins, we will refund the entire program fee, less a $100 cancellation fee per class. 
  • 2-4 Weeks: If a cancellation occurs less than four weeks before the class starts, we will refund half the cost of program fees. 
  • 1 Week: If a cancellation occurs within a week of the start date of the class, no refund is given to any cancellations, regardless of circumstance. 
  • If a student misses class, regardless of reason, program fees will not be prorated and refunds will not be issued. 

    Contact Us

    Questions? For the fastest response, please email summer@belinblank.org.