Registration deadline nearing for HPU’s Summer Scholars and Young Scholars camps

HPU Press Release – There is still time to register for the Summer Scholars and Young Scholars day camps at Howard Payne University. The camps are scheduled July 17-21 from 9 a.m. to noon each day, and those who register by July 10 will receive a free t-shirt. Registration ends July 14.

The programs, featuring instruction in a variety of subjects including robotics and 3D printing, are open to all students in first through sixth grades.

In the Summer Scholars program, students entering fourth through sixth grades will study robotics, 3D printing, science and recreation. The Young Scholars program is designed for children entering first through third grades and the campers will receive instruction in robotics, science and recreation.

“Summer Scholars will be making fidget spinners in 3D printing and will spend more time learning to program the robots in the robotics class,” said Dr. Julie Welker, director of the programs, professor of communication and chair of HPU’s Department of Communication Studies. “Young Scholars students will also spend more time doing robotics and science activities as well.”

Dr. Welker said she has extended class times this year to allow students more hands-on time in the academic areas.

“Our theme this year is ‘Operation Innovation,’ and we want to teach our students that innovation takes time and patience,” she said. “We are providing opportunities for our students to create their own programs and be innovative, all in a fun learning environment.”

Returning as instructors this summer are Estevan Arbaiza, head men’s soccer coach at HPU, who will lead recreation for both camps; Tami Hull, science teacher and robotics coach at Early Middle School, who will teach robotics for Summer Scholars; Dr. Kristen Hutchins, assistant professor of biology at HPU, who will teach science for Young Scholars; Keith Taylor, robotics coach at Early Elementary School, who will teach robotics for Young Scholars; and Dr. Lester Towell, professor and chair of HPU’s Department of Computer Information Systems, who will teach 3D printing for Summer Scholars.

The camps will be held in HPU’s Winebrenner Memorial Hall of Science. Program participants will also have supervised access to HPU’s wellness center, climbing wall and other campus locations.

Cost for the Summer Scholars and Young Scholars programs is $100 per student and includes a souvenir, snacks and supplies.

Online registration is available at www.hputx.edu/summerandyoungscholars. For more information about the Summer Scholars and Young Scholars programs, contact Dr. Welker at 325-649-8508 or via e-mail at jwelker@hputx.edu.