#United States #STEM Education #Hartsville #Governor's School #Online Courses

SC Governor's School for Science & Mathematics Expands Virtual Programs

The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to provide excellence in STEM education. Starting this year, the school is launching a new initiative that opens its virtual programs to homeschool students statewide at no cost. This bold expansion aims to empower high-achieving students by providing them access to advanced coursework and interactions with expert faculty and peers in a collaborative online environment.

About the Expanded Programs

The newly introduced Accelerate Virtual Engineering Program is at the forefront of this expansion. This program is meticulously crafted to deliver a college-level engineering curriculum that prepares students for future STEM careers. Key components of this program include:

• - Live Instruction: Students will benefit from real-time virtual classes offered during traditional school hours, ensuring that learning aligns with their daily schedules.
• - Hands-On Labs: Participants will have the chance to engage in practical lab experiences held at the GSSM campus in Hartsville, fostering a deeper understanding of engineering principles.
• - Summer Learning Experiences: These sessions will focus on real-world engineering applications, allowing students to apply what they have learned in class.

To be eligible for the Accelerate program, students must currently be in the ninth grade and meet specified academic criteria. Applications are being accepted, with a priority deadline of February 24. Families interested in applying can find more details on GSSM's website or contact program representatives via email.

Additional Virtual STEM Courses

In addition to the Accelerate program, GSSM is also offering a variety of other virtual STEM courses that are suitable for a wider audience. These include subjects such as:

• - Computer Science
• - Calculus
• - Upper-Level Mathematics
• - Physics
• - General Engineering

All courses will be conducted live through the Zoom platform, ensuring that students have the opportunity for direct interaction with their instructors and classmates. Notably, participants can even earn college credit upon completion of these courses, an invaluable benefit for those seeking to advance their education early.

Students who wish to enroll must also meet specific academic prerequisites. To register or inquire, families should reach out to GSSM staff via the provided contact information or visit the school's dedicated website listing all available online courses.

Information Sessions and Future Opportunities

GSSM encourages interested families to participate in live virtual informational sessions to learn more about these exciting new programs. Sessions are scheduled for:

• - February 11 at noon
• - February 12 at 7 p.m.

Both sessions will allow attendees to ask questions, gather information, and better understand the opportunities available for their students.

About GSSM

The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics, founded in 1988, continues to hold a prominent position among the top public high schools in the nation. Its mission is to provide world-class STEM education to students throughout South Carolina. Aside from the new online offerings, GSSM also conducts an intensive two-year residential high school program and various summer camps focused on STEM initiatives.

By expanding its offerings to homeschool students, GSSM remains committed to its foundational ethos: challenge as a pathway to opportunity. For more information regarding GSSM and its educational programs, please visit their official website at www.scgssm.org.