GAINESVILLE - This will mark the 21st year of the Gainesville State College Summer Scholars Institute (SSI) which began on Monday, June 27 and runs through July 21. <br />
<br />
For four weeks each Monday through Thursday, approximately 120 middle school students will be on the Gainesville State College campus having a rewarding and eventful summer, as they improve their academic skills, learn from positive role models and improve their chances of attending college.<br />
<br />
The Summer Scholars Institute, an early intervention program, is a three-year cohort program for students in grades 8-10. <br />
<br />
While the students who participate in the SSI do not pay, the cost per student is approximately $850 and covers teacher and student supplies, two meals per day for 15 days, transportation to and from the College, educational field trips, teacher and staff salaries, and uniforms.<br />
<br />
Gainesville State College reaches out to the community to continue this program, which has been shown by pre-and post-tests to increase student academic achievement in math and language arts, science and history. <br />
<br />
Private donors who see the value of the SSI for students and for our community have stepped forward to ensure that this program will continue to serve middle and high school students who have the potential for academic success in the program's service area, which consists of Hall, Habersham and Barrow County and Gainesville City Schools.<br />
<br />
The Gainesville State College Foundation leads the fund raising efforts for the SSI. <br />
<br />
Gainesville State College President Martha T. Nesbitt, who is one of the program's strongest advocates, states, "We are so pleased to continue offering the Summer Scholars Institute to the young people in our area. I am very grateful that the community has again shown its support for this exemplary program and generously contributed to help cover the costs. Summer Scholars not only benefits the students participating, but it also has the long-term effect of raising the educational level in our region."<br />
<br />
During the month-long program, students arrive at the GSC campus at about 7:45 a.m. wearing matching program t-shirts. They have breakfast and then begin a full day of studies, concentrating on history, science, career exploration, math and language arts. All subjects are in line with the Georgia Performance Standards. <br />
<br />
The program is designed to make postsecondary education accessible to a population group that has traditionally been under-represented in higher education.<br />
<br />
SSI Director Robin Thomas-Anyanwu is excited about the 2011 session of the program. According to Anyanwu, "This year's theme is 'achieving excellence together' and that's exactly what we intend to do. It reminds me of a quote from American Poet Edwin Markham (1852-1940): 'There is a destiny which makes us brothers; none goes his way alone. All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own.' This embodies our mission at the SSI."<br />
<br />
Professional faculty for the program includes: two language arts, one Georgia history, World history, science, physical education, and three math teachers. The program staff includes new Program Coordinator Cristina Rodriguez and Lead Teacher Barbara Harkins, as well as several current and former GSC students who serve as mentors.<br />
<br />
In addition to enhancing academic skills, the students will be having fun on their trip to Six Flags and a Job Shadow Day organized by Junior Achievement.<br />
The 2011 Summer Scholars Institute will conclude with a ceremony for the 21 graduating 3rd-year scholars on Wednesday, July 20, 2011, along with a luncheon for students, family members, and staff. <br />
