NTID Regional STEM Center
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Prepare for the transition from high school to college!
Dates:
Decatur, AL June 8-28, 2025 -or-
Jacksonville, FL July 9-29, 2025
Apply Now
Thank you for your interest in STEM Academy. At this time, all available positions have been filled. Dates for 2026 will be posted in the fall.
About STEM Academy
The National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) Regional STEM Center (NRSC) at the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB) designed the STEM Academy to prepare high school students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) for college, with a special focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). This three-week summer program is a condensed version of the Rochester Institute of Technology/National Technical Institute for the Deaf (RIT/NTID) Summer Transition Program (STP), enhanced by engaging STEM activities. Research shows that students who participate in academic summer bridge programs are more likely to be accepted into college and persist in their studies.
STEM Academy Goals for High School Students Who Are DHH
The STEM Academy aims to:
- Close academic gaps in English Language Arts, reading, mathematics, and emotional intelligence.
- Build American Sign Language (ASL) literacy.
- Develop leadership skills.
- Enhance college readiness.
- Foster interest in STEM fields.
- Build social capital within the Deaf community.
The academic structure is centered on an intensive, student-focused learning model. Highly qualified staff create a language-rich environment in both ASL and English, with interpreters to facilitate communication. Students from both mainstream and residential programs are encouraged to apply.
Program Highlights
STEM Academy is offered at no cost to qualifying participants within NRSC @ AIDB's region. NRSC covers all expenses, including travel, accommodations, meals, and recreational activities.
Students who successfully complete the program will receive a laptop and a $5,000 scholarship to the RIT/NTID.
Eligibility
- High school students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- Students entering grades 10-12 in the fall of 2025 or graduating in the spring of 2025.
- Students must be at least 14 years old on the first day of the summer program.
- Students must have an interest in pursuing college or post-secondary education.
Email questions to Cara Wilmot, wilmot.cara@aidb.org.
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What if my child does not know ASL?
No worries! At the STEM Academy, we warmly welcome all students who are deaf and hard of hearing, regardless of their communication mode.
Our classes are thoughtfully designed and delivered by a diverse team of instructors, including both hearing and deaf professionals. We understand the importance of inclusive communication, which is why we provide ASL interpretation as well as spoken language interpretation for all classes and activities.
Even if your child is not familiar with ASL, they'll have the opportunity to learn and grow. It's truly remarkable to witness our students bridging language barriers and embracing different modes of communication.
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How do I apply to STEM Academy?
Visit our STEM Academy page to begin your application to the program when it opens!
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I have attended an NRSC program in the past. Can I apply again?
Yes, you may apply. You will be placed on a waitlist. NRSC places priority on bringing in students who have never been to the program. If spots are available, students will be selected from the waitlist based on the order in which the application was received.
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How do I know if I have been accepted to STEM Academy?
NRSC will begin contacting applicants and their families in April and May to notify them of their acceptance into the program. The project will begin the process of coordinating transportation with you at this time, which may include booking a flight.
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Where will my child stay or eat?
Each program location has a dormitory. NRSC provides 24/7 supervision. Students are provided three meals a day and at least three snacks. During field trips off the program site, meals and snacks are paid for by NRSC.
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Who will supervise my child during the program?
NRSC takes supervision 24/7 very seriously. NRSC hires the best recreational and dorm staff, who are experienced in supervising students who are deaf and hard of hearing day and night. During the day, NRSC staff and chaperones supervise. All staff members are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
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How can families or guardians contact their child in case of an emergency?
NRSC will provide all families and guardians with the necessary contact information one week before the program begins. If your child is flying, the information will include emergency contact and contact for the person who will meet your child at the gate at the airport.
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What do I need to bring?
NRSC has a suggested packing list that will also be emailed to accepted applicants.
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How do I travel to the STEM Academy program?
The NRSC @ AIDB will work with families and guardians to arrange transportation to and from the STEM Academy in the most cost-effective way for the program. Depending on your location, transportation may include a van, bus, or flight, with NRSC @ AIDB covering the associated costs. If you live within a three-hour drive of the camp, you will be responsible for transporting your child to and from the camp at your own expense. Additionally, if flying is necessary, you may be required to travel up to three hours to a designated airport at your own expense. If your child requires unaccompanied minor services for a flight, NRSC will cover the cost upon request.
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Do I need to pay for transportation costs?
NRSC will cover costs for eligible students to and from STEM Academy who live more than three hours from the camp!
Note: If you are under the age of 15, air transportation cannot be arranged for you.
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What if my child's flight has a layover?
If your child is underage, NRSC @ AIDB can arrange for unaccompanied minor services to ensure they are supported during layovers. If your child is an adult and ineligible for these services, we recommend taking the following steps to ensure a smooth journey:
- Download the airline's app and create an account. Enter the flight confirmation number to save the flight details and receive real-time alerts and notifications.
- Add your child's information, including their cell phone number, to receive updates directly.
If your child has hearing loss, you can indicate this in the app to ensure accessible notifications and boarding information are provided on the day of the flight. - Use the app to view airport maps and research connecting flights, helping your child navigate layovers independently.
- It’s also a good idea for your child to notify flight attendants or gate agents during their journey. These agents can provide guidance and assistance as needed during the layover.
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What if we live close to the camp location and do not need to fly?
You may arrange for your own transportation to the camp location. In this case, if NRSC does not provide transportation, the 15 years of age requirement for eligible students is changed to 14 years of age.
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Sights & Sounds - STEM Academy article
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TOD POD - Transition & STEM Careers (Podcast)
