Summer Academies Have Successful Sessions
Students participating in the second session of JBA pose for a picture in the Ophelia Parrish Performance Hall. Nearly 500 students attended the annual summer academy across two sessions.
This summer, Truman welcomed more than 600 pre-college students to campus for multiple programming options.
The first session consisted of 239 students, 31 preceptors and eight pro-staff members, while 257 students, 32 preceptors and eight pro-staff members participated in the second session. Students could choose from 11 different courses among subjects in the fields of STEM, fine arts, writing/language, history/social studies and athletic training.
For younger students, JBA Jr., is a weeklong day program for those entering 5th-7th grade. This year saw 56 students participate, with the help of six preceptors, one director and 11 faculty members. Activities this summer included athletic training, outdoor recreation activities, theater class, art, music and reptiles/amphibians. Students also had the opportunity to spend a whole day at the Truman Farm where they participated in a “seed-to-table” experience, took a tractor ride and saw goats, chickens, horses and cows. They also had the opportunity to take part in a campus scavenger hunt, attend a library lecture and planetarium shows.
In partnership with A.T. Still University, the Truman Healthcare Academy is for students who have completed the 9th, 10th or 11th grade. This five-day program allows pre-college students to learn about health professions through hands-on activities, demonstrations and discussions. This summer they had 53 students, seven preceptors and three directors. Students were able to learn about: disability studies; the anatomy, dental simulation and exercise physiology labs; and the medic helicopter. They also practiced suturing and casting skills and learned how to become CPR certified. In the evenings, the students were able to explore the community, including participation in an escape room and a paint night event.
