Encore

ULS ENCORE — Afterschool Encrichment Program

The University Laboratory School ENCORE after school enrichment program fosters artistic growth in our cubs. We offer dynamic, hands-on courses designed to inspire and teach students from elementary through high school.

Below are our Fall 2025 offerings, meeting after school from 3:00–4:30PM on the weekdays listed below.

TIME: Courses will begin September 2, and run until December 15 (14 weeks of classes). Classes will not meet during school holidays (Fall Break and Thanksgiving).

LOCATION: Students will stay after school. Parents should arrive for pick up at 4:30 near the ULS Auditorium.

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

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

Please register by Friday, August 29, 2025.

Instructor	Course	Course Description	Registration
Melissa Wilson	Percussion Grades 3rd–7th Tuesdays 3:00–4:30	Discover rhythm, coordination, and collaboration. Students explore a wide range of percussion instruments—from hand drums and xylophones to drum kits and more. Elementary students build rhythm skills through movement and games, while older students perform ensemble pieces and study world percussion. Emphasis is placed on teamwork, listening, and performance.	REGISTER FOR PERCUSSION Class Limit: 20 spaces
Robin Palmer Blanche	Acting & Screenwriting Grades 3rd–6th and 7th–12th Wednesdays (3rd–6th) 3:00–4:30 Thursdays (7th–12th) 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 3–6 REGISTER FOR ACTING & SCREENWRITING 7–12 Wednesday Class Limit: 15 spaces Thursday Class Limit: 15 spaces
Clay Achee Creator of Ziggy's Arts Adventures on PBS	Filmmaking: Short Films Grades 5th–12th Tuesdays 3:00–4:30	Learn to tell stories through the lens of a camera. This course introduces students to the essentials of filmmaking—storytelling, production roles, and collaboration—culminating in a short group project. Students will work together to plan, shoot, and produce a simple short film.	REGISTER FOR FILMMAKING: short films Class Limit: 15 spaces
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.	REGISTER FOR FILMMAKING MOVIE MAGIC WORKSHOP Class Limit: 15 spaces
Dr. David Dockan LSU School of Music	Rock Band Grades 3rd–5th 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
Dr. David Saccardi LSU School of Music	Strings Grades 4th–6th Tuesdays & Thursdays 3:00–4:30	Strings Ensemble Class. Students will learn the fundamentals of playing string instruments such as violin, viola, cello, and bass in a supportive, ensemble-based setting. Emphasis will be placed on proper technique, music reading, and group performance skills. Whether your child is a beginner or has prior experience, this class fosters musical growth and confidence through rehearsals and live performance opportunities. There will be an instrument rental fee with Strings.	REGISTER FOR STRINGS Class Limit: 20 spaces
Margaret Milam	Honor Choir Grades 3rd–5th Wednesdays 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