Since 1984, the West Virginia Governor’s Honors Academy has served as a summer camp for smart kids.
Really, really smart kids.
Top-performing students admitted to the academy over the years have delved into DNA and the medical, ethical ramifications of what happens when you try to manipulate it.
They have moved to the physics of Appalachian clog-dancing and unwrapped the ancient embalming techniques that made mummies, well, mummies.
Mock-arguments of actual Supreme Court cases addressing race and racism have been heard and scientific deep-dives have ensued, addressing the properties of just how far a wooden board can bend — before it actually breaks.
Two years ago, COVID canceled the academy altogether, and last year’s academy was online-only, given the pandemic.
For now, the 2022 gathering is set to resume in person June 25-July 15 on the campus of Fairmont State University, organizers said.
Students will stay in dorms and take part in seminar-styled sessions of classes such as the above.
“Our safe, hilltop campus is the perfect place for young scholars to dip their toes into the college living experience,” FSU President Mirta Martin said.
She expects sparks of intellectual excitement to crackle across the leafy campus on Locust Avenue.
“Once ignited, the fire of learning burns bright,” Martin said, “and these Academy participants will continue to grow and learn.”
In addition to the aforementioned courses, past participants have studied basic screenwriting, reverse-engineering concepts and how some West Virginia “hollers” seem to be more haunted than others.
Last year’s offerings turned the pandemic on its head. Courses were tuned to COVID, and COVID alone.
One example from the catalogue: “How do you stay in motion when the pandemic has slowed everything to a crawl — metaphorical, and otherwise?”
State Schools Superintendent Clayton Burch said he likes the intellectual play that goes forth.
“The Governor’s Honors Academy has been changing students’ lives and perspectives for nearly 40 years,” he said.
There’s no charge to attend. Applications for students, teachers and residential staff are now available online at www.govschools.wv.gov/gha.
March 8 is the deadline for counties to submit applications and recommendations.
Specific questions may be addressed to Sherry Keffer, the Governor’s Schools coordinator, at cheryl.keffer@k12.wv.us.
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