New Governor’s Schools Offer Students Unique Summer Experience

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Education announced today the addition of three new Governor’s Schools designed to encourage high school students in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The new options this year, Computational Physics, Emerging Technologies, and Scientific Models and Data Analysis, have been added to the previous nine options designed for gifted and talented students.

“The addition of these programs gives motivated students even more options in finding a program that suits their interests,” Governor Phil Bredesen said. “I commend all the students who are looking to expand their skills in these areas which are so critical to career opportunities for them in the future.”

Tennessee Governor’s Schools began in 1985 and have offered students intensive learning opportunities every year since with the exception of 2002. Today, the program has evolved into a five week, curriculum rich experience on a college campus where students can earn up to six hours of college credit.

“I am pleased with the partnership we have with institutes of higher education in creating meaningful programs for talented youth,” Acting Education Commissioner Tim Webb stated. “I am thrilled that we have been able to work together to create new options this year to accommodate and appeal to the interests and talents of more students.”

The curriculum content, approach, and location of each program varies by school. State funding covers all the basic expenses of the program at no cost to the student. In addition to the new program options, other Governor’s school choices include humanities, technology leadership, international studies, prospective teachers, the sciences, Tennessee heritage, agricultural studies, the arts, and engineering.

In January, the Tennessee State Board of Education adopted revised curriculum standards with increased rigor in STEM for all grades, aligned to greater expectations and the knowledge needed at the high school level. As part of the Tennessee Diploma Project launched by Governor Bredesen last year, graduation requirements for math and science were strengthened to require more high level classes for all students.

For additional information on The Tennessee Governor’s Schools visit http://tennessee.gov/education/govschools/.

For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us.