Summer Academic Enrichment Eligible Programs

Goals

MITY’s ExplorSchool provides current 5th - 7th grade students a unique opportunity to investigate new topics and dive deeper into their passions at a level that is challenging and motivating. Intellectually curious students take two classes, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, enabling them to explore different disciplines, experience things that are not possible within a normal school setting, and forge new friendships.

MITY’s mission is to inspire and challenge intellectually curious students to pursue their passions within a diverse, inclusive community and empower them by building skills and relationships for lifelong success. MITY addresses the educational outcomes of low-income students who require high-quality enrichment and support to counter the negative effects of their socioeconomic status. By attending MITY, students gain social skills, academic knowledge and critical attitudes necessary for success at their current school and in future academic and career pursuits. There are no comparable intensive summer learning opportunities offered for students in Minnesota.

MITY strives to develop intellectual passions for all of its students. This goal is supported in multiple ways, including: - Intense focus on two subject areas of a student's choice, thereby providing both depth and breadth in subject areas in which students are interested. - Engaging teachers who have experience working with talented youth. - Intellectually challenging, unique, hands on curriculum. - A range of classes to engage many interests, talents and learning styles. - Ongoing opportunities to connect and apply learning to the real world. - Collaborative problem-solving with other bright, eager students.

Activities

ExplorSchool challenges students academically while developing leadership skills, instilling self-confidence, and fostering lifelong friendships among like-minded peers.

MITY's approach is guided by the following core attributes: 1. exceptional, award-winning teachers; 2. small class sizes (16 or less) so that everyone feels welcome to participate and learn; 3. unique, experiential and integrated learning activities; 4. diverse class choices (STEM, arts, humanities) that appeal to multiple intelligences; 5. a whole-child approach to developing students academically, physically and socially.

MITY’s ExplorSchool offers over 40 courses designed specifically for motivated learners. Students go on field trips, engage with guest speakers, conduct labs, engage in intellectual discussions, and solve real-world problems. Sample classes include: Astronomy; Cryptology; Improv; Mathematical Logic; Mock Trial; Real World Engineering; Robotics; and Studio Art.

MITY offers much more than a rigorous curriculum—its philosophy is to develop students’ emotional intelligence, executive functioning skills, and leadership abilities as well. In addition to the collaborative work that is embedded into each class, a number of special events and a midday recreation time serve to build teamwork, foster friendships, and generate opportunities for creativity and effective communication. Students are free to embrace their true selves, take risks, and experience the true joy of the MITY community. Parents are invited to visit on the last day of classes.

Program Dates

Session A: 2-Week Session Start Date: June 17, 2024 End Date: June 28, 2024

Session B: 2-Week Session Start Date: July 8, 2024 End Date: July 19, 2024

Can students reside on campus? No

Can students commute to campus? Yes

Can students take online classes? No