DALLAS, GA — Students from the Kennesaw State University TRIO Programs: Upward Bound Hiram High School, Upward Bound Rockmart & Cedartown High Schools and, Upward Bound Math-Science East Paulding High School Senior Class of 2023 gathered with their families at the TRIO Programs Office to begin the summer with a bang.

As KSU TRIO begins to prepare for the intensive Summer Academy, student met at the Paulding Georgia Highlands College site to learn more about the awesome journey they are about to start, meet their classmates, and get their supplies. The goal of the KSU TRIO Summer Academy is to help students build their confidence in the upcoming school year's classes and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Students work through a curriculum that previews the material they will see in their classes and take part in electives like "Jam Session 101: Expressing Yourself Through Music" or "Advanced Art Making: How Art Colors the World."

"We want to make sure that our students have the tools they need to succeed, and maintaining the mental health of our youth is paramount to the success of that goal," said Dr. Lemelle, KSU TRIO Programs Director. "The idea is to holistically teach them ways to deal with the stress of school and life though giving them channels to express themselves in a safe and constructive environment."

Summer Academy students will produce creative and academic work for the KSU TRIO magazine, The Owlette, which will be published at the end of the summer. Check our website for updates soon!