Summer Scholars Institute

The Summer Scholars Institute is supported by a grant from Jackson EMC and with contributions to the University of North Georgia Foundation, specifically for Summer Scholars.

For many 12-16 year-olds, early adolescence offers opportunities to choose a path toward a productive and fulfilling life. For many others, it represents a chance to avoid a diminished future. The Summer Scholars Institute (SSI) is an intensive four-week summer program for rising 8th, 9th, and 10th grade “at promise” students.  The program encourages high school completion and entry into post-secondary education. Students, selected by their local middle schools, are taught academic success skills that transition to the curriculum they will encounter in their next year in school. The Summer Scholars Institute is offered each summer on the Gainesville Campus. Through coordinated efforts on and off campus, we work with students to ensure they receive academic and personal support through the transitional process. 

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Summer Scholars Institute is to provide students with a very strong and challenging core curriculum, supplemented by diverse enrichment courses and activities. By giving students this opportunity, we are better able to prepare them for the demands of high school and adult life. The program seeks to achieve this goal by enhancing language and communication skills, strengthening study skills, building cross-cultural awareness, and creating positive self-esteem.  Special efforts are made to involve the students' families in the overall process.

Goals

• Increase retention and prevent dropouts
• Improve academic skills
• Promote interest and strength in language arts, math, and science
• Provide knowledge for exploring career options
• Increase college awareness
• Provide exposure to positive role-models
• Provide recreational and cultural activities
• Encourage parental involvement