Lauren Boyle has been interested in child development for most of her adolescent and adult life. She babysat and tutored children throughout her time at Westlake High School in Austin, Texas. Upon entering The University of Texas at Austin she became a nanny for a family with four children. As an English major and Education minor, Lauren formally studied child development, child psychology, children’s literature, visual art studies, as well as learning and motivational development. She furthered her studies through graduate work at the The University of Sussex in England. During her time at the University of Texas and through her student teaching experiences in early childhood, elementary, middle and high school classrooms, Lauren realized her interest in helping children discover their creative abilities outside of the traditional curriculum. She decided to establish a program that will lead children through several different avenues of creative expression beyond the classroom. Lupine Lane is the realization of Lauren’s thoughts and ideas, with which she will assist children in exploring the creative world.

Carl Cates (Mr. Carl) was born and raised in East Texas. During his high school years, Carl started his own landscaping company, competed on the UIL level in band and choir and earned his Eagle Scout award. He was accepted into Baylor University with a scholarship in vocal performance. While attending BU, Carl volunteered with the welcome week committee, worked as a supervisor for the Baylor Lifeguards, earned a scholarship as an athletic equipment manager for Baylor Football during the 2001-2003 seasons, interned with the athletic audio/visual staff producing motivational videos and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications. Carl spent the next four years in the Beaver Creek, Colorado working with the Ritz-Carlton Club, Bachelor Gulch. During his last two years he supervised the ski valet team, which earned the highest guest satisfaction ratings amongst the Ritz-Carlton hotels. After moving to Austin, Carl landed a dream job in the entertainment field working as a video assist PA for the third season of “Friday Night Lights.” Currently, Carl spends his time behind the scenes of Lupine Lane, preparing for and wrapping up the classes, birthday parties and events. He also occasionally assists Lauren with teaching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up for classes?

In each location, there is a different method of signing up for classes. It is best to sign up in advance to ensure that we have enough supplies and space. Here are the details for signing up at each different location:

Clay Madsen: The easiest way to sign up at CMRC is to go to www.roundrockrecreation.com and sign up there. You may also call (512-218-3220) or walk in a register. If you are walking in to register on the day of class, email Lauren to ensure that there will be enough supplies and space.

The Lakeway Activity Center: You can call (512-261-1010) or walk in and register. However, if you walk in it's important to arrive early to ensure that you have enough time before class. And, it is helpful to have the Lakeway Registration Form filled out when you arrive. It is also helpful to email Lauren to ensure that there will be enough supplies and space.

Bella Mar Community Center: In Steiner Ranch, begin by emailing Lauren to ensure there there is enough supplies and space. Then, print and fill out the Steiner Ranch Registration Form and bring it to class along with your payment.

Miss Julie's Learning Center: There is a Kinder Cooks Sign Up Sheet in the front lobby, along with a check drop.

Fern Bluff Community Center: Email Lauren to ensure there is enough supplies and space and please fill out the Lupine Lane Registration Form and Waiver and bring that to class along with your payment.

Private Classes: Email Lauren to sign up. Fill out the Lupine Lane Registration Form and Waiver and bring that to the class along with your payment. To start a private class at your residence or business, email Lauren.

What if I have paid for a session and my child misses a class?

Lupine Lane does not offer refunds for missed classes. However, with 24 hours notice of absence (email or call 512-565-1501) we are able to accomodate 1 make up class per month. The 24 hours notice is necessary so that we can set aside materials that will not be used.

What if my child is not the exact age that you specify for the class but would really like to participate?

The age ranges are simply guidelines. Each parent knows their child best. If you feel he or she is ready to participate but is outside the age range, email Lauren and we can arrange for your child to be in the best class for his or her needs.

Can parents stay with their children in a Drop-Off Class?

Drop-Off Classes are designed for the child to learn independently. We ask that parents please leave the classroom if your child is participating in a Drop-Off Class. While we realize it is interesting to watch your child learn and create, we want to give each child equal time and attention, which becomes difficult when some parents are present and some are not. We thank you for understanding. If you are looking for a class where you can be with your child, our Mommy and Me classes are designed for both the child and the parent to participate together.

Should my child bring an apron or a smock to cooking and art classes?

We have aprons (and chef hats!!) for Lil' Kinder Cooks, Kinder Cooks and The After School Supper Club. And, we also have smocks (that will fit kids and parents as well!) for Lil' Absolutely Art and Absolutely Art. Or, your child may bring their own aprons or smocks. However, it is still a good idea to wear old clothes that your child can get messy. If you will be participating in a Mommy and Me Class, it is best to wear old clothes yourself. Often times, paint and food can wind up in the craziest places!

Why the name "Lupine Lane"?

One of Lauren's favorite books when she was little had a drawing of a field of lupine flowers. She asked to read it every night and her Dad began calling her Lauren Lupine. It stuck, and when Lauren was living in Colorado, she lived near a street named Lupine Lane. It seemed to be the perfect name for a bright and colorful place where kids create, learn and grow!