Year-Round Programs
Discover New Things All Year Long
The Discovery Academy is more than a summer camp program. We aim to promote career exploration, critical thinking, and creativity through on-campus programming that centers on the Franciscan values of learning, leadership, and service. The Discovery Academy year-round programs offer continued experiential access to the faculty and resources of the University of Saint Francis.
Our year-round programs help to foster new interests and deepen passions, all while nourishing the soul. Participants will build connections and friendships, develop and hone their skills, and have a ton of low-stakes fun in the process.
Youth Art Academy
Inspiring Young Artists from Kindergarten through 12th Grade
Join us for this popular Saturday morning program where students in grades 3–6 explore their creativity through hands-on art lessons led by talented University of Saint Francis instructors.
Location: Rolland Art Building, University of Saint Francis
Dates: Saturdays, Sept. 19 – Nov. 14, 2026
(No class Oct. 17 for Fall Break)
Time: 9–11 a.m.
Tuition: $160
Registration Deadline: Friday Sept. 11
Students are grouped by grade level to ensure age-appropriate instruction:
- Grades 3–4
- Grades 5–6
Spots fill quickly, so we encourage you to register early!
Have questions or need help with registration? We’re here to help.
Teen College Café
An Academic and Career Enrichment Program for High School Students
Hosted on the University of Saint Francis campus, our Teen College Café is a new series of workshops thoughtfully designed by Saint Francis faculty, staff, or students to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage community belonging. The Discovery Academy Teen College Café provides students with academic based workshops that promote career exploration and connections with the University of Saint Francis while demonstrating our core values of virtue, service, and joy. High school students are invited to explore academic and career pathways in a welcoming environment that fosters real connections with peers, professors, and the SF experience. Whether you’re discovering new interests or deepening existing passions, our Teen College Café is where future dreams start to become reality.
Each Teen College Café will adhere to the following schedule:
- 15-minute mingling and snacks.
- 15-minute introductory presentation providing background and context for the topic.
- 45-minute hands-on workshop.
- 15-minute career exploration Q&A, helping students connect their interests to potential career paths.
Programs will resume in Fall 2026.
Saint Francis Cinema Collaborative
Fall Animation Club
Calling all aspiring animators! Students in 8-12th grade are invited to join the Saint Francis Cinema Collab for eight Saturdays of hands-on animation and creative collaboration.
Participants will learn real animation techniques and work with professional equipment to create 2D animated clips, characters and logos. Along the way, students will develop storyboards, explore their own creative ideas and collaborate as a team to bring both their vision and client needs to life.
No previous animation experience is required, and all materials are provided.
Dates: Saturdays, Sept. 19 – Nov. 14, 2026
(No class Oct. 17 for Fall Break)
Time: 9–11 a.m.
Tuition: $160
Registration Deadline: Friday, Sept. 11
Fall Film Club
Lights, camera, action! Students in 8-12th grade are invited to join the Saint Francis Cinema Collab for eight Saturdays of hands-on filmmaking and creative collaboration.
Participants will build their media skills while learning to use real film equipment and professional techniques to create a short documentary. Students will scout locations, set up shots, develop interview questions and work together as a production team to bring their creative vision and client needs to life.
No previous filmmaking experience is required, and all materials are provided.
Dates: Saturdays, Sept. 19 – Nov. 14, 2026
(No class Oct. 17 for Fall Break)
Time: 12–2 p.m.
Tuition: $160
Registration Deadline: Friday, Sept. 11
Students are welcome to sign up for both clubs. We will have staff onsite to visit with them for the hour-long lunch break. Students who stay over for lunch should bring their own packed lunch.
Ready to Discover?
Connect with SF Faculty, develop a skill set, and find new interests — all with new friends in a safe and caring environment.
Have questions?
Request more information now.