FUNDED PROGRAMS AWARDED 95/96

Project Title: Summer Science Academy
Project Director: Tom Dana (Dr. Phronsene Chimiklis)
Organization: Victor Valley College
Phone: (760)245-4271, ext.2357

Victor Valley College proposes to develop a Summer Science Academy for the eleventh and twelfth grade disabled and minority students of the High Desert area. There is a vital need to improve upon the minimal numbers of underrepresented high school students who select careers in the science fields. The science enrichment program will address enrollment and retention issues for students with special needs by afording them an opportunity to experience a practical orientation to a science curriculum with specific identifiable career paths. Student participants will be offered counseling, assistance, student mentors, and be extended an orientation to specific college programs and services. Victor Valley College professional staff will work collaboratively with representatives from the local high schools in the area to identify targeted students for the Summer Science Academy. The multidiscipline approach will convey the idea the field of science is not only challenging and rewarding, but can be enjoied with vast opportunties.

The Summer enrichment program will be four weeks in duration providing skills in research and experimentation. Students will also have the opportunity to observe how science impacts industry and their own enviornment. Field trips to science industry locations as well as interacting with employees and technicians in this field will be included. Those students who are successful in completing the four week course will receive a certificate of completion, a portfolio containing vocational and academic resources and priority registration for full or part time enrollment in Victor Valley College for the ensuing fall semester. It is anticipated that the Summer Science Academy will linkage to feeder high school in the High Desert, will enhance future college enrollment of underrepresented student by providing innovative curriculum and a viable counseling component that will both foster and nurture underrepresented students interested in pursuing a career in science technology.