Aspen Science Center

(HS)2

General Information: (HS)2 Summer Program

Click here to apply online

APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR SUMMER 2009 PROGRAM

  • 01/16/09 Student Application Due by Midnight MST.
  • 02/25/09 Supplementary Forms Due by Midnight MST.

If you are unable to apply online, please call 970-456-7751 and we will send you an application.

The (HS)2 Program provides a three-year summer residential accelerated learning environment in mathematics and sciences for students traditionally underrepresented in these fields.  Based on (MS)2, at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts since 1977,  the programs were designed in response to the evidence "that a strong background in mathematics and science, gained during the high school years, is essential to enable a young person to prepare successfully for a career in a mathematics/science-based profession." (MS)2 has been successful in delivering the training, experience, and intellectual path that prefigures success in college and beyond. With its first class graduating this summer, (HS)2 is achieving the same goals.

The (HS)2 program offers African-American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, and other underrepresented students, the opportunity to immerse themselves in the study of mathematics and science for five weeks, during three consecutive summers, while living in a state-of-the-art college preparatory boarding school in the Rocky Mountains.

The (HS)2 program provides students with the skills, confidence, and knowledge they need to excel in the mathematics and science courses they will be taking at their public schools.  The program supplements the student's academic experience with a broad foundation and an introduction to advanced concepts, enabling students to return to their schools with a broader and deeper knowledge of the subject matter.  The rigor and relevance of the courses are designed to help the (HS)2 scholar become more self-reliant and self-sufficient as a student and a member of the community.

  • First year students take Algebra, Biology, and an English course covering the fundamentals of writing and analytical reading.
  • Second year students progress to Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, and Literary Analysis.
  • Third year students complete the program with courses in Calculus, Physics, and College Counseling.  Students meet with college admissions representatives and design a college application plan.
  • In addition, students take a course in Computer Science and participate in cultural and developmental activities that focus on leadership, community, and individual growth.

Students spend a majority of their day engaged in academic studies; the homework load is intensive and expectations are high. Academic work is balanced by afternoon activities and evening/weekend community gatherings that depend upon the location of the program and the size of the group, and take advantage of the unique location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Students in the program stay connected with (HS)2 during the academic year to ensure that their personal bond with the program is continually reinforced while away from campus.

Tuition, room, board, and textbooks -- and in some instances travel and/or expenses -- are paid for by the program. Admission to the program is highly selective, and is based on scholastic achievement, academic and leadership potential, interest in mathematics and science, personal recommendations of teachers and counselors, and financial need.  Applicants apply during 9th grade.  Applicants must complete Algebra by the end of 9th grade.  Those accepted begin the program following their 9th grade year and graduate from (HS)2 the summer before their senior year.

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