Learn by making. Grow by exploring.

Our academies turn learning into an experience through hands-on, interactive challenges, emerging AI technology and real-world applications.

Thanks for a great summer! See you next year.

See what a week looks like in the 2026 summer catalog (PDF). The 2027 academies are coming: June in Champaign, with Chicago next.

Our programs

Afterschool Summer Winter

Weeklong academies in June, and shorter sessions through the school year. Same rhythm every time: design it, build it, test it.

For middle schoolers

Champaign Chicago

Grades 5-8, ages 10-13. The age group is flexible so please contact us if you would like to see if your child can join us!

Summer 2027 pre-registration opens January 1, 2027.

Keep me posted

Registration is open. Places are limited.

Gloved hands dusting a mirror for fingerprints during the Mystery Heist

Two students hold up the illusion drums they built in the Eye Spy Illusion Lab

A student tests the wind turbine on his cardboard house with a hair dryer

An instructor holds a jar of natural dye up to the light while students watch

Students at laptops building their games during Game Time

A student holds up the mirror ball rig he built to save the Discodome

A guest scientist's demo fills the table with fog during Technology Hour

A morning game on the lawn during World of the Day

A DNA model built from clay and straws, with the lesson slide behind it

Brain Time: a spike recorder traces muscle signals on the screen while an instructor laughs with students

A habitat model built in a foil tray, with soil, stones, a fence and marigolds

A huddle over the Find Someone Who sheets on the first morning

“I have disliked summer camps my entire life. I loved my experience and I want to thank you.”

Middle School student, summer 2026

Hear from the parents

Words from the parents in Summer 2026.

“My son was always excited to get up and go.”

Parent of Franklin STEAM Academy 7th grader

“A BIG thank you to the entire Innovation Grove team! We were so impressed by the thought, care, and creativity that went into the program. Thank you for creating such a wonderful experience!”

Parent of NGS 6th grader

“My child became more confident trying new things. They talked about what they learned at camp and wanted to continue a project or topic at home. Also made new friends.”

Parent of NGS 8th grader

“My son was happy and engaged every day. He was so proud of his work and had a positive attitude. He remembered something he learned daily.”

Parent of Franklin STEAM Academy 7th grader

“My son said this camp was different because he felt respected, trusted, and listened to. Many camps cater to the troublemakers, which means everyone has to stay within the troublemaker rules and limits. Not so with this camp. He had ample opportunity and encouragement to experiment and make something his own way.”

Parent of NGS 8th grader

“My daughter became more curious about science and technology and she talked about what she learned at camp.”

Parent of NGS 7th grader

Coming up

What’s next at the Grove

Enrollment is closed for now while we plan the year. Here is what is coming, and where to read more.

01 Winter 2027 Winter Academy NewThe summer format, condensed for the break. Details this winter. Details 02 Spring 2027 AfterschoolOnce a week at Next Generation School, 3:30 to 5:30 PM, for grades 5 to 8. Details 03 Summer 2027 Summer Academy, ChampaignTwo themed weeks in June. $500 for one week, $900 for two. Pre-registration opens January 1. Details 04 Summer 2027 Summer Academy, Chicago NewA new academy for the Chicagoland area. Full details to be released. Details