Educator Spotlight: RiZ Thomas highlights the power of lifelong learning
If you hear a chorus of high school students chanting “RiZ!” echoing through the halls of the TGR Learning Lab, you might think you’ve stumbled into a concert before the headliner takes the stage. In a way, you have. Except the artist they’re waiting for is also their teacher. Just before class begins in the media lab, you’ll often find a […]
Inside a Spring of Hands-On Learning at the TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia
This spring, our students didn’t just learn. They explored, created, competed, questioned and dreamed bigger than ever before. For our youngest learners, curiosity led the way. Third-grade students had an opportunity to video call an astronaut, asking questions about life in space and learning that STEM careers are possible for them too. Fourth graders transformed classrooms into innovation labs […]
Senior Recognition Night celebrates graduating class of 2026
This month, the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia celebrated the achievements of graduating seniors during Senior Recognition Night, an evening dedicated to honoring the hard work, growth and accomplishments of the Class of 2026. As the first graduating class since the TGR Learning Lab opened its doors, the Class of 2026 holds a special […]
PGA Championship Career Day exposes students to professional golf opportunities beyond competition
Ahead of the 108th PGA Championship, members of the TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia participated in a Career Exploration Day at Aronimink Golf Club. Students were welcomed to the Club and participated in a series of interactive sessions led by industry professionals who shared insights into their career journeys and experiences within the golf industry. The day showcased golf as more than a sport, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring a large-scale event to life. Sessions highlighted the design, engineering and software tools used by brands like TaylorMade, gave students hands-on exposure to CAD […]
Tiger Robotics Team Qualifies for FIRST® Robotics World Championship in Inaugural Season
Members from the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab in Philadelphia are preparing to showcase their work on a global stage. In its inaugural season, the Tiger Robotics team (Team 10979) has qualified for the FIRST® Robotics Competition World Championship in Houston, TX. This milestone places our members among the top high school robotics teams around […]
Volunteer Opportunities at the TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia: Support Student Success
At the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab, volunteers play a vital role in creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for students. Every day, students walk through our doors ready to explore new ideas, build skills and discover what’s possible for their future, and volunteers help make those moments happen. April is National Volunteer Month, but at the Lab, there are opportunities to get […]
Intern Insider: My experience as a TGR Learning Lab Intern
Every junior at my school looks forward to January. This year, it wasn’t because the Eagles were Super Bowl–bound, but because we were preparing to trade classrooms, tests and homework for office chairs and boardrooms through our internships. When the deadline arrived to submit our work site choices, my decision felt easy. I wanted something […]
Winter Highlights: Innovation, Exploration and Student Achievement at the TGR Learning Lab
At the TGR Learning Lab, learning doesn’t slow down when the temperatures drop. Throughout the winter months, students across grade levels from early elementary to high school have been building skills, exploring new passions and achieving milestones that reflect the Lab’s commitment to hands-on learning and future-focused opportunities. From aviation certifications to robotics competitions and […]
TGR Learning Lab opens winter session enrollment
The Smilow-Woodland TGR Learning Lab, one of West Philadelphia’s most impactful youth resources, has officially opened enrollment for its Winter 2025–26 programming. This winter, students and families are invited to register for free, high-quality STEAM and academic enrichment opportunities designed to inspire, challenge and empower young learners. The winter session offers free enrichment for students, […]
30 Free and Low-Cost Summer Learning Activities for Teens to avoid learning loss
Summer should be a time for students to recharge, but long breaks from learning can lead to what educators call the “summer slide.” It’s important to balance rest and engagement to avoid losing valuable academic skills that could lead to disadvantages in the fall. At the TGR Learning Lab we have a variety of classes, […]
