Jr. Lobo Academic Academy Connects Students with Future Opportunities
Hands-on activities in STEM, career exploration, criminal justice, film and other fields introduce local middle school students to college and career pathways.
The Jr. Lobo Academic Academy is preparing for another year at UNM-Valencia, giving local middle school students opportunities to explore academic subjects, careers and college experiences through hands-on learning.
For the 2026-27 school year, the program will focus on eighth-grade students from Belen Middle School, Los Lunas Middle School and Valencia Middle School. Participating students will take part in activities covering biotechnology, biology, chemistry, computer science, criminal justice drone use, career exploration, mathematics through weightlifting, and film and digital media.
The academy is designed to introduce students to a range of subjects and possible career paths while helping them become more familiar with the college environment at UNM-Valencia. The variety of activities gives participants opportunities to explore interests across science, technology, mathematics, public service and creative fields.
A student and family orientation is scheduled for Sept. 15, 2026. Parents and caregivers will receive additional information from their child’s school about the orientation and opportunities available through the academy.
Through the Jr. Lobo Academic Academy, UNM-Valencia continues to connect younger students with educational experiences that can help them explore future academic and career possibilities.
A new school year means new experiences, new goals, and new possibilities for our future Lobos! Small steps toward big dreams. We are Lobo bound!
