June 16, 2026

Wildcat University inspires exploration, creativity and learning

Students smiling at camera while working.

Wading River School transformed into a campus of discovery and creativity as students participated in Wildcat University, a day of enrichment designed to give students a college-style learning experience. 

Ahead of University Day, students selected from a catalog of engaging elective courses based on their personal interests. The Wading River School team then created student schedules and an itinerary of which classes they would be traveling to throughout the day. The unique program encouraged students to take ownership of their learning while exploring new hobbies, skills and potential career paths. 

Course offerings were led by faculty members, parents and community volunteers who shared their expertise and passions with students. The diverse catalog of courses featured hands-on experiences including, journalism, American Sign Language, ukulele lessons, coding, scrapbooking, gardening and cooking. 

"The children not only were able participate in unique learning experiences but practiced real world application skills such as choosing their own courses and following their own schedule," said school psychologist Jill Madore. "Our 'professors' even enjoyed sharing new ideas and experiences from our children. I am so proud of all of our learners learning all new things!" 

Wildcat University was made possible through the collaboration of Wading River School faculty and staff, and dozens of volunteer "professors" who generously donated their time and talents to create memorable experiences for students. 

By blending student choice, hands-on learning and community involvement, Wildcat University provided an exciting opportunity for students to discover new interests, develop valuable life skills and experience the excitement of lifelong learning. 

A group of five people, including children and an adult, stand behind a pickleball net holding paddles.   Two smiling teachers hold up children's books while two young students sit at a table with books.   Three children stand behind a table with a blue bin, appearing to be at an outdoor event.   A young girl with glasses peers intently through a microscope, her classmates watching with curiosity.   Two smiling children, a girl and a boy, hold cups and look at the camera at an outdoor gathering.   Children participate in a physical activity in a school gymnasium.   Two police officers interact with smiling students in a classroom setting.   Students practice CPR on a training dummy in a classroom setting with instructors.   Children sit cross-legged on yoga mats in a classroom setting, participating in a yoga class.   A teacher smiles holding a red object while three students sit at a table in a classroom.   Two police officers interact with smiling students in a classroom.   Students practice CPR on a training dummy in a classroom with instructors.  Children sit cross-legged on yoga mats in a classroom setting, participating in a yoga class.    A smiling teacher holds up a red object while three young students look on at a table in a classroom.   A group of children and adults gather around a picnic table outdoors.  Students practice CPR on a training dummy in a classroom with instructors.   A smiling boy stirs a purple liquid in a clear cup during a classroom activity.   A teacher and students gather around a round table in a classroom, smiling.   A child and an adult stand near a colorful, tall artwork in a room with shelves.