UCI Education Programs

UCI’s Community Education team collaborates with more than 20 institutional partners to bring learning to life for more than 15,000 people, from preschool to senior adult learners, through arts-enriched community education programs.  

In 1973 UCI's Community Education Department was established to connect the resources of University Circle’s world-class institutions to students of all ages and backgrounds through informal education programs. The team focuses its work on removing barriers so all people can partake in University Circle educational experiences. While we aim to make sure that all learners get connected to the incredible resources of University Circle, we concentrate much of our attention on the schools of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and our neighbors adjacent to the Circle. 

Today, the team manages a variety of programs that enhance the lives of children and adults throughout the region and leads an informal learning ecosystem that supports schools and students, families, and cultural partners that serve the Greater University Circle area.  

To learn more about our signature programs, click on a link below. 

Early Learning Initiative (ELI)

The Early Learning Initiative (ELI) creates a vital link between preschool teachers, students, and families, and the collections and live performance resources of University Circle institutions.

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Linking Education and Discovery (LEAD)

LEAD provides thousands of K-8 students in Cleveland Metropolitan Schools with engaging and enriching learning experiences through visits to Circle-area museums, gardens, and performing arts institutions. 

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Circle Scholars

Circle Scholars connects 7th and 8th graders from nearby neighborhoods with afterschool activities focused on learning more about and becoming stewards of their communities.

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Circle Explorers Summer Camp

Circle Explorers, will engage rising 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students from our neighborhood schools in a discovery of their environment, University Circle, and Greater Cleveland.

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University Circle Interactive Cleveland (UCIC)

UCIC offers unique experiences using videoconferencing technology to allow seniors to "travel the world" using interactive technology in real-time from their retirement communities or local senior centers. 

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YAY! Saturdays

Make arts, action, and adventure a part of your family’s weekend routine with YAY! Saturdays. Each YAY! features three zones with free children’s activities that rotate each week so you can choose your own adventure. All activities are free, geared toward K-8 students and their families, and will take place on Wade Oval in University Circle. 

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Circle Partners Educators Collaborative

The Community Education team also convenes the education departments within and beyond University Circle – called Circle Partners Educators Collaborative (CPEC). The Circle Partners are committed to collaboration, inclusivity, reflection, intentionality, and growth.  The Circle Partners collaborate by sharing best practices, research, and insights on thoughtfully engaging learners of all ages.

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