Encore

 

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University Laboratory School – ENCORE
Course Descriptions for students Grades 2–12

We are excited to offer afterschool programming to foster artistic growth in our Cubs. ENCORE offers dynamic, hands-on courses designed to inspire students from elementary through high school.

Below are our Spring 2026 offerings, meeting after school from 3:00-4:30 PM on the weekdays listed below.

TIME: Courses will begin February 23 - May 21, 12 weeks of classes. Classes will not meet during school holidays (Spring Break).

LOCATION: Students will stay after school and be picked up at 4:30 PM by the Auditorium

COST: There is a registration fee of $25, then each class is $350 for the semester.

Contact Information:
For questions about enrollment or curriculum, please contact the ULS Fine Arts Department Chair, Margaret Milam, mfowler1@lsu.edu.

Please register by Friday, February 20, 2026.

 

Instructor Course Course Description Registration

Robin Palmer Blanche

Robin Palmer Blanche

Acting & Screenwriting
Grades 3rd-7th

Wednesdays 
3:00–4:30


Unleash your voice and imagination.
Taught by former Hollywood producer and working screenwriter (as well as a proud U-High parent!) in this hands-on screenwriting class, students will learn screenplay story structure, create compelling characters with unique personalities and motivations, and craft authentic dialogue that brings their characters to life. They’ll then direct actors in their scenes and participate in a special showcase where families can watch their completed films. This program combines creative writing with practical filmmaking experience, giving young storytellers the tools to bring their unique ideas to life on screen.

REGISTER FOR ACTING & SCREENWRITING

Wednesday Class Limit: 20 spaces

 

Clay Achee

Clay Achee
Creator of Ziggy's Arts Adventures on PBS

Filmmaking: Movie Magic Workshop
Grades 5th–12th

Thursdays
3:00–4:30

Learn special tricks and techniques to bring the magic of movies to life.
In this hands-on series, students will explore a selection of practical film effects and how to create them. Each session features a new technique with short demos and student-created scenes using the effects. Students will work on film projects.

 

REGISTER FOR FILMMAKING MOVIE MAGIC WORKSHOP

Class Limit: 15 spaces

David Docken

Dr. David Dockan
LSU School of Music

Rock Band
Grades 6th–8th

Wednesdays
3:00–4:30

Make some noise and learn to rock!
Students learn guitar, bass, drums, keys, and vocals while playing as a band. Rock Band Lab covers everything from classic rock to current hits. Students practice ensemble skills and stage presence, culminating in live performances. Instruments are provided as needed.

REGISTER FOR ROCK BAND

Class Limit: 10 spaces

Mackey

Elizabeth Mackey
ULS Art Instructor 

Clay Creations: Hand building & Sculpting 
Grade 2

Mondays
3:00–4:30

Get your hands messy and your creativity flowing!
In this fun and imaginative ceramics class, second graders will explore the art of hand building and sculpting with clay. Students will learn foundational techniques such as pinch pots, coil building, slab construction, and simple sculpting while creating animals, characters, functional pottery, and seasonal projects.

Through guided lessons and creative exploration, young artists will develop fine motor skills, patience, and confidence as they turn their ideas into three-dimensional works of art. All materials are provided.

REGISTER FOR Clay Creations

Class Limit: 12 spaces

Margaret Milam

Margaret Milam

Honor Choir
Grades 3rd–5th

Tuesdays
3:00–4:30

Raise your voice in harmony.
Honor Choir is for dedicated young vocalists who enjoy performing. Students rehearse choral works of various genres, develop vocal technique, and learn to read music. The choir performs at school events and regional festivals, promoting excellence, teamwork, and joy in singing.

REGISTER FOR HONOR CHOIR

Class Limit: 30 spaces