MSDE offers homeschoolers Summer Educational Fun

There's plenty for homeschool youngsters to do this summer with the Maryland Summer Center programs. Maryland Summer Center programs offer unique instructional experiences for gifted and talented students entering grades 4 through 12, giving them opportunities to work in settings and with resources not available during the school year.

Throughout Maryland, the programs offer 1-3 week residential and non-residential programs with a focus on the arts, science and engineering, mathematics, law and government and other topics. Activities encourage critical thinking, creativity and problem solving while challenging students academically. Tuition ranges from $100 to $700. Some need-based scholarships are available. The following are a sampling of available programs (residential and non-residential). Grades based on Fall 2008 standings:

Space Science
Grades 6-7: June 23-July 3 in Laurel, MD (non-residential)

Environmental Conservation
Grades 5-7: July 5-13 - Clear Spring, MD (residential)

Performing Arts
Grades 7-12: July 6-19, Salisbury State Univ. (residential)

Brochures and applications are also available at local public schools, the FCPS Office of Gifted and Talented Education, 115 East Church St., Frederick, and online. Applications must be postmarked by April 15, except for fine arts programs, which have earlier deadlines and may require an audition. Please check deadlines for each Center for the Arts.