Get ready—it's a zoo in here! This exciting unit is perfect for kids who can't get enough of creatures big, small, slithery, or downright silly. Each week, we'll build motorized models inspired by fascinating animals, from snakes and insects to mammals and more. As we build, we'll discover amazing animal facts, like how chameleons change color to blend into their surroundings and why seals have such an adorable waddle. Every project combines creativity, engineering, and hands-on fun as kids bring their moving models to life while exploring the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.

Chess Wizards is one of the nation's premier chess education companies, inspiring students through an interactive, discovery-based curriculum that teaches them to think ahead, visualize goals, show respect for others, and learn from mistakes. Our classes are designed for all skill levels—from chesslings making their first moves to checkmate artists mastering advanced strategies. Through engaging lessons, exciting tournaments, variation games, and fun challenges, students build confidence while sharpening their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. More than just a game of winning and losing, we make learning chess fun!

Inspire your child’s love of cooking this fall with CookLearnGrow! In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary, young chefs will explore classic American-inspired seasonal recipes while learning essential cooking and baking techniques. Through hands-on classes, students will build kitchen confidence, creativity, teamwork, and valuable life skills in a fun and engaging environment. Each session features NEW RECIPES and seasonal activities, giving students plenty of opportunities to create, cook, and discover new flavors. Allergy Information: We are able to accommodate nut allergies only. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate egg, gluten, or other food allergies. For safety, we are unable to enroll students who require an EpiPen for severe food allergies other than nuts. Celebrate the flavors of fall and America’s 250th with CookLearnGrow!

What is Kardivas? Kardivas is a character-building club for 5th grade girls designed to encourage each girl to recognize that she is uniquely created with purpose, has worth, and has something valuable to contribute. For more than 20 years, Kardivas has helped prepare LTISD girls for the transition to middle school through weekly meetings, service projects, social activities, and positive mentorship. Every 5th grade girl is invited to join! What is the Club Like? Kardivas meetings are fun, welcoming, and interactive! Girls enjoy a snack, receive awards, participate in icebreaker games, and take part in meaningful discussions focused on character and relationships. Topics may include honesty, being a good friend, forgiveness, gratitude, and other skills that help girls build confidence and positive relationships. In addition to weekly meetings, Kardivas offers optional social events, service projects, and special celebrations, including Christmas and Easter parties. These events are held off campus and outside of the regular Thursday meeting time, and participation is completely optional. How is Kardivas Organized? Each Kardivas club is organized and managed by a team of leader moms who have a 5th grade daughter at the school. Lake Travis High School senior girls also serve as mentors, helping lead activities and discussions during club meetings. Scholarships are available upon request. For scholarship information, please email lisa@johnsonlakeway.com.

Build Confidence with Lil Voices! Lil Voices is an engaging public speaking program designed to help children build confidence while developing strong communication and leadership skills. Through fun, age-appropriate games, interactive activities, and speaking exercises, students learn the fundamentals of public speaking in a supportive and encouraging environment. With a focus on character development, children practice expressing their ideas clearly, speaking with confidence, and becoming effective communicators. Each class helps participants strengthen self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and discover the joy of using their voice. Join Lil Voices and help your child become a confident speaker and leader of tomorrow!