Junior Seahawk Mission

This project aims to:

1. To aid in the implementation of literacy programs for below grade level readers and readers with learning disabilities through the integration of science, mathematics and technology experiences.
2. to provide a platform for middle school aged students from underrepresented populations to develop an interest in learning math, science and technology while participating in various fun, hands-on activities that promote learning
3. To increase access of information for students, parents, and the community regarding benefits and accessibility of post-secondary education

The academy will serve approximately 60+ middle school students (ages 11-15) from underrepresented populations. The populations of middle school students targeted for this academy are from diverse ethnic and cultural communities that have low literacy rates and rarely attend college or enter in jobs that require advanced math and science skills. It is expected that students’ motivation and enthusiasm about considering college as a career choice will be impacted by being exposed to the UNCW campus and college culture. Educational communities will benefit from having students who have increased reading skills and are excited about these areas, eager to pursue advanced courses.

Our goal is to motivate underrepresented students interests in learning by allowing them to engage in real-world, hands on, field experiences. We also seek to use technology, specifically Kidspiration, as a literacy integration tool, probeware as a tool to enhance science, InspireData and other math learning tools.
Each student will engage in 20+ hours of academic enrichment in mathematics, science, and technology. The core curriculum has been developed by UNCW faculty in alignment with the North Carolina Middle School Mathematics and Science Standard Course of Study.