Fifty-two students participated in the week-long Summer Scholars Academy June 24-28 at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP). Participants from Alton, Koshkonong, Mtn. View, Thayer, West Plains, Willow Springs and Mammoth Spring, Ark., attended the event. Summer Scholars Academy is an academic enrichment opportunity that offers fifth through eighth graders hands-on courses in science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) topics. Students “enrolled” in a variety of courses during the week that touched on such topics as fencing, gardening, animal science, painting, computer graphics and programming, probability and statistics, healthcare and nursing, and biology and life science. They also participated in water games, dodgeball, a catapult challenge and a tower building challenge. “We had a wonderfully diverse, energetic and motivated group of students this week. They were excited about their activities and classes, and worked hard to get the most out of their week,” said Trevor Cressman, director of workforce development and community education at MSU-WP. “I am thankful for the staff and faculty for stepping up to help make the academy happen, and I am thankful for the parents, community members and community organizations for providing their support for this event. We are looking forward to next year!” West Plains Bank and Trust Company, one of the academy’s community partners, provided lunch to the students on June 27 and taught them about banking, financial literacy and careers in banking. (Photo courtesy West Plains Bank and Trust Company).
