Junior Seahawk Mission
This project aims to:
- provide a platform for middle school aged students from underrepresented populations to develop an interest in learning math, science and technology while participating in various fun, hands-on activities that promote learning
- aid in the implementation of literacy skill for participants with learning disabilities through the integration of science, mathematics and technology experiences.
- increase access of information for students, parents, and the community regarding benefits and accessibility of post-secondary education
The academy will serve approximately 60+ middle school students (ages 11-14) from underrepresented populations. The populations of middle school students targeted for this academy are from diverse ethnic and cultural communities that may have low literacy rates and rarely attend college or enter in jobs that require advanced math and science skills. It is expected that students’ motivation and enthusiasm about considering college as a career choice will be impacted by being exposed to the UNCW campus and college culture. Educational communities will benefit from having these students who have are excited about these areas and eager to pursue advanced courses in school.
Our goal is to motivate underrepresented students interests in learning by allowing them to engage in real-world, hands on, field experiences. We will also use technologies and books to help enhance students’ literacy skills and other math and science learning tools.
Each student will engage in 20+ hours of academic enrichment in mathematics, science, and technology. The core curriculum for the program is aligned with the North Carolina Middle School Mathematics and Science Standard Course of Study and was developed by UNCW faculty and local certified Math and Science teachers.