Starr Hill Pathways Photo Gallery

Environmental Science Pathway

Students pose for a picture in the river — Students tried their hand at canoeing with the help of our partners at the Rivanna Conservation Alliance.

Students standing in the woods with buckets and a fish diagram — Students learned about the wildlife living in the Rivanna River directly from an expert.

A student posing next to a canoe — All smiles for a great day at the river!

In the 9th Grade Environmental Sciences Pathway, students partnered with the Rivanna Conservation Alliance for a hands-on look at conservation science. The week began with a nature scavenger hunt along the Rivanna Trail and a visit to the Rivanna River Company, where students learned about the local watershed and the importance of protecting water quality.

Students visited a water treatment plant and connected with chemists and engineers to see how clean water is produced. They also conducted fish censuses, practiced stream sampling, and built pollinator boxes to support native bees. The program wrapped up with a paddling trip on the Rivanna River, where students observed the Riverview Park restoration project in action. By the end of the week, students had a deeper understanding of environmental careers and how conservation science supports healthier ecosystems.

Data Science Pathway

Student with teacher — Our partners at C4K taught these students how to use 3-D printing and other software.

Students at a table — Games make the learning more fun!

Students writing at a table — Thumbs up for data science!

Students working with computers — These students took time creating their unique designs.

In the 7th and 8th Grade Data Science Pathway, students teamed up with mentors from UVA’s School of Data Science and Computers4Kids to uncover how data shapes our world. The program kicked off with engaging challenges that taught students how to collect, interpret, and organize data to solve real-world problems. Early projects included designing digital charm bracelets and building basic car models, all while learning foundational programming skills.

During the second week, students explored how data can inform design by using natural elements as inspiration for ramp simulation projects. They received 3D-printed versions of their car models and tested their performance on ramps, collecting data to refine their builds. The program culminated in a showcase where students demonstrated their simulations and shared what they had learned. By the end of the experience, students had a strong introduction to data science and its practical applications across fields.

Veterinary Technician Pathway

Student on a horse apparatus — Students learned how polo players ride during matches at the Virginia Polo Center.

Student walking into a stable at Virginia Polo — A student entering a stable at the Virginia Polo Center.

A woman standing and talking to sitting students — Ohana Horse Farm owner Kim Bryson spoke with students about her career working with horses.

A student washing a horse with the help of a pathway leader at the Virginia Polo Center.

Students washing three horses — Students learned how to wash these patient horses with the help of a pathway leader at the Virginia Polo Center.

A student holding a horse on a rein — Students learned to care for the animals, like gently guiding them for a walk around the farm!

A student taking a photo of a dog — Making new friends at the Virginia Polo Center.

Students using stethoscopes — Testing, testing. Students learned to use stethoscopes on the horses, too.

In the 7th and 8th Grade Veterinary Technician Pathway, students experienced the world of equine care and polo through a two-week hands-on adventure with Virginia Polo and Ohana Horse Farm. During their first week at Virginia Polo, students learned about the fundamentals of the sport and basic horse anatomy. They observed demonstrations from collegiate players and veterinarians and participated in grooming, tacking, and untacking horses.

In the second week, students moved to Ohana Horse Farm to deepen their understanding of veterinary care. They practiced taking vital signs, safely haltering horses, and applying bandages. Students also participated in emergency response drills and interactive challenges that tested their skills. By the end of the pathway, students had developed a solid foundation in equine care and a greater appreciation for the role of veterinary technicians.

Health & Medicine Pathway

A student looking through a microscope — Students learned to work with a microscope while working with UVA lab technicians.

Students observing a scientist in a lab — Students observed scientists conducting experiments in UVA laboratories.

Students pose for a photo in a UVA lab — "Cheese!" - Lab edition

In the 7th and 8th Grade Health and Medical Sciences Pathway, students explored a wide range of biomedical topics through interactive experiences across UVA’s research laboratories. In the Redemann Lab, students observed tiny model organisms and performed experiments to track their movement. In the Levental Lab, they examined various cell types under microscopes, learned about cell division, and practiced pipetting techniques with colored water. Over in the Ai Lab, students explored bacterial colonies and their colorful proteins.

The second week continued with more lab visits and advanced scientific concepts. In the Kulkarni Lab, students learned about amphibians used in research, like the African clawed frog. In the Zimmer Lab, they conducted experiments on protein crystallography, while the Bao Lab offered a tour of an electron microscope facility. At the Ebrahim Lab, students used virtual reality to observe immune cells in action. By the end of the program, students gained a deeper appreciation for how research and discovery contribute to healthcare and medical advancements.

Computer Science Pathway

Students in front of computers — Students worked with computer programs like JavaScript daily.

Student in a classroom — The team at Innovation Hub worked with students daily on the basics of coding.

Students writing on a desk — Hard at work!

Students working with computers and micro:bits equipment — Students learned to work with micro:bits, a pocket-sized programmable computer designed to encourage children to get involved with coding and digital making.

Micro:bit created by a student — a micro:bit built by a student. These a pocket-sized programmable computer are designed to encourage children to get involved with coding and digital making

Students building micro:bits — More micro:bit building!

In the 7th and 8th Grade Computer Science Pathway with the UVA Innovation Hub, students embarked on a dynamic two-week journey into the world of programming and robotics. Their exploration began with hands-on lessons using micro:bit microcontrollers, which introduced them to key computing concepts like inputs and outputs. These accessible devices helped lay the groundwork for deeper learning, allowing students to engage with both hardware and software in meaningful ways.

Building on their foundational knowledge, students dove into algorithmic thinking and were introduced to the Hummingbird Robotics Kit—a tool that combined sensors, lights, and motors for creative robotic builds. With mentorship and guidance, students designed their own "biobots," robotic creations inspired by nature and biology. In the second week, they brought these ideas to life through coding and construction, learning to program their robots and refine their functionality. The pathway concluded with students proudly presenting their biobots at the expo, having gained confidence in their coding skills and a stronger understanding of how technology and creativity go hand-in-hand.

Business & Finance Pathway

Students in a classroom — Students learn basic financial principals like the difference between wants and needs.

Students pose for a photo in front of a projector — Students participated in an entrepreneurial challenge with local entrepreneurs.

Students standing in front of a projector screen — We have a winner! Each group of students pitched their idea to a local entrepreneur. The winners took home $20!

Teaching speaking with students at a desk — Pathway leaders at Mahogany and Friends: Tiny Investors Club led students through math problems that strengthened their financial literacy.

Students play a game in a classroom — Students learned through engaging games like "Credit vs. Debit"

In the 9th Grade Business and Finance Pathway, students worked with Mahogany & Friends to explore the foundations of personal finance and economic decision-making. The week began with activities to help students distinguish between needs and wants, build realistic budgets, and understand income types. Through engaging games and hands-on exercises, students practiced using checks, differentiating between credit and debit, and exploring compound interest.

As the week progressed, students expanded their financial literacy with lessons in investing, entrepreneurship, and long-term financial planning. They participated in a stock market simulation, pitched original business ideas, and visited a local bank to learn about professional banking operations. The week wrapped up with students developing individual savings plans—an exercise in goal setting and future thinking. Through these experiences, students walked away with essential money management skills that will benefit them in high school, college, and beyond.

Education Pathway

Student playing with a child — Students visited the Virginia Discovery Museum for some hands-on experience working with children in educational environments.

Student writing "I love you" on a screen — We ❤️ our Starr students, too!

In the 9th Grade Education & Human Development Pathway, students explored how informal learning environments support child development through an immersive experience with the Virginia Discovery Museum. The week began with a guided tour of the museum, where students examined exhibits and discussed how education, design, and storytelling intersect to create engaging spaces for children.

Students then took on the role of exhibit designers, crafting their own interactive displays and educational programming. They considered factors such as age appropriateness, accessibility, and learning outcomes, and created dioramas or visual aids to present their ideas. The week concluded with presentations and a practice Q&A session, allowing students to refine their public speaking and communication skills. The experience offered insight into careers in education, museum studies, and early childhood development.

Multimedia Filmmaking Pathway

Student and woman looking through a camera — Pathway partners from Light House Studio guided students through the basics of filmmaking.

Students and an adult looking at a computer — Students learned to edit on FinalCutPro.

Student pointing — Students excitedly recorded, edited, and scored their own original videos.

Student recording on a camera — Filmmakers at work!

Students recording on the Lawn — Students had access to scenes around UVA grounds to get the perfect shot.

Students recording in front of a building — Action!

Students editing on a computer — Editors at work.

In the 9th Grade Multimedia Pathway with Light House Studio, students immersed themselves in visual storytelling through hands-on filmmaking. The week began with foundational lessons in screenwriting and camera work. Students brainstormed film ideas and wrote scripts in small production teams, taking on roles such as director, writer, actor, and cinematographer.

Once production began, students managed their filming schedules, selected props, and practiced key techniques like camera framing and blocking. After filming, they entered the post-production phase, editing with professional software to enhance sound and visuals. Students presented their final short films at the expo, leaving with newfound confidence, technical experience, and a portfolio-ready project that reflects their unique voice and creativity.

Robotics Pathway

Students looking at computers — Pathway partners with Charlottesville Area Robotics taught the students to use the block-based Python software.

Students standing by a wall — Students tested their custom-built robots on a track created by the Charlottesville Area Robotics team.

Student looking at a computer — On their way to robotics engineering!

Student working on a computer — Students participated in friendly head-to-head competitions, using their custom-built robots to complete a series of challenges.

Students working with a computer — The Robotics Pathway partners were there to guide these students every step of the way.

In the 7th and 8th Grade STEM and Robotics Pathway, students teamed up with Charlottesville Area Robotics to explore the intersection of engineering and innovation. During the first week, students learned to program using block-based and Python software, applying these skills through team-based activities that emphasized problem-solving and experimentation. They prepared for their final challenge by engaging in warm-up activities, including interactive readings and collaborative games designed to sharpen their focus and build community.

With a strong foundation in place, students transitioned into the design and build phase of their robots. They meticulously documented each stage of their process and practiced iterative testing to refine their creations. By the end of the pathway, students participated in friendly head-to-head competitions, using their custom-built robots to complete a series of challenges. Along the way, they honed their understanding of STEM principles while gaining experience in teamwork, critical thinking, and real-world engineering practices.

Neuroscience Pathway

Student working with clay — Students created brain molds using color clay.

Students testing experiments off of a balcony — Experimenting in the sun!

Students playing a game in a laboratory — Students tried their skills by creating a prothetic hand models.

A student working with a prosthetic hand — Testing...

Students testing a prosthetic hand model — With the support of the Neuroscience pathway leaders at UVA's Brain Camp, these students learned all about mind muscle connections.

Students in front of an MRI machine — Students visited more UVA facilities to learn about the neuroscience technology.

Students standing in front of plates of candy — Eating our way through a DNA lesson!

The 7th and 8th Grade Neuroscience Pathway with UVA Brain Camp invited students to explore the inner workings of the brain through hands-on experiments and fascinating lessons. During the first week, students tested their senses, built clay models of brain structures, and explored cranial nerve functions through interactive games and sensory activities. They created educational posters and models that helped reinforce key concepts in neuroanatomy and neurophysiology.

In the second week, students shifted focus to genetics, memory, and brain imaging. They conducted DNA extraction experiments using strawberries, visited UVA research facilities like Fontaine Research Park, and toured active animal laboratories to learn about imaging technology and neuroscience research in action. By the end of the program, students walked away with a broader understanding of how the brain influences daily life and a deeper interest in the scientific and medical careers that study it.

Creative Arts Pathway

Students at a computer with headphones — Students working with MIMA Music wrote and produced their own songs.

Students in a sound booth — Students recorded their original songs in a sound booth located at UVA.

Students writing at a desk — Students started the creative process by writing lyrics for their own songs, with assistance from our Creative Arts partners at MIMA Music.

a student in a sound booth — Once the lyrics were finished, students hopped in the booth!

A man with a wig and chain speaking to students in a classroom — ...with some inspiration from our awesome MIMA Music partners!

A group in a music studio — These students toured a local music studio for a hands-on experience.

Students working on arts and crafts — With our partners at the Fralin Museum of Art, students created inspiring zines.

In the 7th and 8th Grade Creative Arts Pathway, students explored storytelling through sound, image, and words in partnership with MIMA Music, the Fralin Museum of Art, and ReadyKids. During the first week, students collaborated with MIMA Music to create their own record labels, complete with original logos and taglines. They learned the fundamentals of beat-making, audio editing, and video production while developing catchy jingles and short-form videos that reflected their identities and creative ideas. Students also learned about the music industry by experimenting with publishing techniques and media branding.

In week two, students transitioned into visual storytelling with ReadyKids and the Fralin Museum of Art. They participated in a guided tour of the museum, then created zines—miniature handmade publications that combined collage, illustration, and writing. Each student crafted a zine that represented their voice and story, building on what they had learned about narrative from their music and video production experience. The pathway culminated in a vibrant showcase at the expo, where students shared their music, videos, and zines with families and community members. This multidisciplinary experience nurtured their creativity, built technical skills, and reminded them that their stories are powerful and worth sharing.

Performing Arts Pathway

Students holding hands in a circle — Students started each lesson with a group bonding exercise.

Students following a dance instructor — 1...2...Pas de bourrée!

Students pose under colorful lights — A quick dance break to gaze under the (studio) stars!

Students in front of a mirror — A quick warmup to get the class started.

Agriculture and Sustainability Pathway

Students petting a chicken — Students learned about the livestock living at Morven Farm.

Students holding squash — Students picked the fresh squash growing at Morven Farm.

A student juicing a lemon — Learning the real meaning of farm-to-table!

A student drinking tea — Students learned all about tradition in the Japanese Garden at Morven Farm.

Students in a Japanese garden — A guided tour through the Japanese Garden at Morven Farm.

In the 9th Grade Agriculture & Sustainability Pathway, students took a deep dive into food systems, sustainable farming, and nutrition through hands-on learning at UVA’s Morven Sustainability Lab and the UVA Office of Sustainability. The week began with a historical tour of Morven Farm and a soil sampling activity. Students attended a guest lecture by educator Michael Carter Jr., who introduced them to sustainable farming techniques rooted in African American traditions.

As the week continued, students explored nutrition through interactive activities, including preparing homemade tomato sauce and evaluating food advertisements. They participated in a Japanese tea ceremony, learned to make herbal tea blends, and designed their own future farms that considered both environmental and community needs. The week wrapped up with a career panel featuring professionals in farming, food systems, and sustainability. Students left with a holistic understanding of how sustainable agriculture impacts everyday life and future job paths.

Student Expo 2025

Student and counselor listening to headphones connected to a computer

Students shaking hands with an expo attendee

A student holding a slate that reads "2025 Starr Hill Pathways Film"

The annual Starr Hill Pathways Student Expo is more than a celebration—it’s a powerful reflection of what’s possible when students, families, and community partners come together to invest in the future of our community. Listen for yourself!

From hands-on exhibits to confident student presentations, this year’s Expo highlighted the growth, curiosity, and talent of the Starr Hill Pathways scholars who’ve spent their summer exploring careers and college pathways across our region.

We’re so excited to support the next generation of Starrs!

Starr Hill Pathways Counselors

Our dedicated & brilliant Starr Hill Pathways counselors do their best to create a welcoming and fun learning environment for our students here at Starr Hill Pathways.

2023-2024 School Year Enrichment Programming Days

SHP Scholars and staff discuss a question during a daily wellness check-in. — SHP Scholars and staff discuss a prompt during a daily wellness check-in.
Sydney Shuler, The Equity Center

A Scholar operates a robotic arm during a visit to PVCC with the Engineering Tech. pathway during a spring programming day. — A Scholar operates a robotic arm during a visit to PVCC with the Engineering Tech. pathway during a spring Programming Pay.
Sydney Shuler, The Equity Center

SHP Scholars explore a model human skull during the Health & Sciences Pathway with UVA Health. — Scholars explore models of human skulls during the Health & Sciences Pathway with UVA Health.
Sydney Shuler, The Equity Center

During the final Starr Hill Pathways (SHP) programming day of the year, Scholars learned about nursing responsibilities with UVA Nursing, took a tour of Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, analyzed a game of ping pong basketball with Computers4Kids (C4K), and painted original artwork with The Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative.

The SHP curriculum is designed to help Scholars elevate every year - from the time they enter the program as rising sixth graders to the time they matriculate out of the program as high school graduates. This year, the rising ninth graders in SHP's inaugural cohort will be paired with internships through our community partners at the Community Attention Youth Internship Program, a professional development opportunity for youth ages 14 to 21.