NTID Regional STEM Center
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Prepare for the transition from high school to college!
Dates: Coming soon for Summer 2025!
Students may attend one program per summer!
The National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) Regional STEM Center (NSRC) designed the STEM Academy to prepare high school students who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) for college with a STEM focus. The three-week program is a condensed version of the Rochester Institute of Technology, National Technical Institute for the Deaf (RIT/NTID) Summer Transition Program (STP), with the addition of engaging STEM activities. Students who complete academic summer bridge programs are more likely to be accepted and stay in college.
STEM Academy's goals for high school students who are DHH are the following:
- Close the gaps in the academic content areas of English Language Arts, reading, mathematics, and emotional intelligence.
- Develop American Sign Language (ASL) literacy,
- Develop leadership skills.
- Enhance college readiness.
- Encourage an interest in STEM fields.
- Build social capital in the Deaf community.
The academic structure for STEM Academy is an intensive student-centered learning model with highly qualified staff in a language-rich environment.
STEM Academy is offered at no cost to participants. This includes NRSC covering all expenses such as travel, accommodations, meals, and recreational activities.
**Students who will be in grades 10-12th grade in the fall of 2025 and students who graduate in the spring of 2025. Age 15 on the first day of the summer program.
Applications will open in early 2025!
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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?
NRSC will coordinate transportation to and from the program location with families and guardians in the most cost-effective way for the project. It will be at NO COST to families. Transportation may include a van, bus, or a flight to and from STEM Academy.
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Do I need to pay for transportation costs?
NRSC will cover costs for eligible students to and from STEM Academy!
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?
All flights that layover in or originate from Atlanta will be escorted by NRSC staff. NRSC will communicate with students, parents, and guardians throughout the flight.
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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.
