The first quarter of 2026 was filled with energy and engagement at the TGR Learning Lab, as students explored new interests, built confidence and strengthened their skills through a wide range of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), college access and enrichment experiences.
Day Program Field Trips Inspire Exploration
From January through March, the Learning Lab hosted 19 one-day field trips for students in grades 5–12. These experiences allowed 1,259 students to participate in hands-on workshops designed to spark curiosity and expand their understanding of future academic and career pathways. Students in grades 7–12 also participated in college access sessions to prepare for their journey to higher education.
Additionally, 5th- and 6th-grade students from four school districts participated in the multi-day field trips, where they explored biotechnology and forensic science through immersive, hands-on learning.
Expanded Learning Builds Confidence and Community
Anaheim launched five unique afterschool expanded learning teams this year, offering small-group experiences centered on specific interests and career pathways. The new running team strengthened physical fitness, resilience and confidence as they prepare together for a spring 5K race.
Students also engaged in career-connected learning opportunities allowing them to gain real-world experience through job shadowing experiences at The Genesis Invitational and participation in our annual health care career student showcase in partnership with Providence
In March, the Learning Lab also introduced a new student leadership team, creating opportunities for students to build leadership, collaboration and public speaking skills. These student leaders will help support activities and host booths at upcoming Learning Lab events, gaining valuable real-world experience along the way.
New Jr. Expanded Learning Opportunities Introduce Pathways Early
Through partnerships with local elementary schools, 5th– and 6th-grade students from Westmont, Danbrook, Ponderosa and Peter Marshall Elementary visited the Learning Lab weekly as part of the Jr. Expanded Learning program. Students explored engineering concepts through hands-on design challenges such as bridge building and DIY catapults, gaining early exposure to innovation and problem-solving while experiencing what the Learning Lab has to offer.
Saturday Workshops Offer Hands-On STEAM Experiences
Saturday programs continued to provide engaging opportunities for students in grades 5–12 through both single-day workshops and multi-week series. Highlights included:Â
- Woodworking: Build a Spice Rack
- Financial Aid Application Station
- Game Design
- Sports Academy
- Life Science
These workshops gave students additional opportunities to explore interests, build skills and connect learning to real-world applications.
Friday Night Events Bring Learning to Life
Monthly Friday night events created fun, welcoming spaces for students to connect with peers while exploring creativity and science in new ways. From DIY lava lamps and mini golf under black lights to painting sessions and bingo activated their creativity while trying new activities and skills.
Educators
Saturday sessions have expanded beyond students, engaging educators in topics such as Rocketry, AI Tools, and Game Design through a new Inquiry Exploration series providing educators with hands-on, innovative learning experiences.
The program also launched its first workshop in the series, Inquiry Mindset, which has been successfully delivered to local schools through both our day program field trips and school partnerships.
One of the most meaningful highlights of the year has been welcoming back a former TGR Learning Lab student as a student teacher, now participating in our Professional Learning program, an inspiring full-circle moment that reflects the impact of our work.
Looking Ahead to Spring Opportunities
The momentum continues this spring with additional Day Program field trips, the launch of the Expanded Learning Spring 2 session and upcoming events including a Friday Night Science Escape Room and new Saturday workshops featuring Micro:bit coding, engineering challenges, food science collage making and a Smash Bros. tournament.
Alongside student programming, our professional learning team continues to engage local educators through workshops and opportunities designed to strengthen teaching practices and support student success. Registration also recently opened for upcoming summer STEM Studio sessions, expanding opportunities for educators to connect, collaborate and bring innovative strategies back to their classrooms.
We’re excited to keep building opportunities for students and educators as the year continues.
