May 09, 2011

SIUC to host Challenge to Excellence program

by Nicole Trainor

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Division of Continuing of Education is hosting the 28th Challenge to Excellence Summer Program for academically talented students this summer. Camps will be June 12-17 and June 19-24 at SIUC.

Challenge to Excellence provides academically talented students with opportunities to “stretch themselves” in classes that promote higher level thinking skills and creativity in a variety of academic subjects including mathematics, science, and creative writing as well as in other skill and content areas.

Camp I meets June 12-17 and is for students who are currently in fifth through seventh grades. Camp II will be June 19-24 for students currently in grades eight-10.

Students may register as resident campers for $395 or as commuter campers for $320 by May 20. There will be an additional $10 fee for registrations after the May 20 early registration deadline.

The cost of Challenge to Excellence provides five nights lodging in an air-conditioned SIUC residence hall (for resident campers only), all meals while participants are on campus, educational supplies and materials, limited accident medical insurance coverage, a camp T-shirt, recreational activities, and instruction.

Camp organizers recommend participating students have an IQ score of at least 120 (if available) and a score in the 90th percentile or above on the math, science and/or language arts sections of an achievement test. Those registering for the camp must include the signature of a teacher or guidance counselor certifying the student is qualified to attend the program. Returning students do not have to provide test scores.

To register, or for more information, contact the Division of Continuing Education at 618/536-7751 or visit the website at https://www.dce.siu.edu.