July 16, 2004

Media Advisory: Saluki Kids' Academy

A special academy at Southern Illinois University Carbondale set for July 19-23 will offer 165 school kids from 15 local communities opportunities to experience the thrills of flight, work out with Saluki athletes, get close to snakes and much more.

Activities are offered from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays through the Saluki Kids' Academy, an outreach program founded three years ago by the SIUC College of Education and Human Services. The goal is to spark an interest in academics among fourth through eighth graders who've had difficulty working to potential.

Shawnee Community College in Ullin annually partners with SIUC to host the enrichment program. About half the youngsters spent this week on that campus before coming to SIUC.

Reporters and photographers are welcome to cover all events at SIUC. On the Carbondale campus, kids will get an introduction to orchestra music, acting classes, the University Museum and arts and crafts.

For an up-to-the minute schedule of daily events or for more information, call John C. Davis, director of the Saluki Kids' Academy, at 618/453-6468. This year, the academy is serving youngsters from Pittsburg, Mulkeytown, Gorham, Murphysboro, Cairo, Karnak, Carbondale, Marion, Christopher, Mount Vernon, Herrin, Mounds, Grand Chain, Mound City and Tamms.