|
Summer Sojourn at Franklin Academy is designed for students between the ages of 13 and 19 who have Nonverbal Learning Differences and Asperger's Syndrome. Students eligible for this summer program include those students who are currently enrolled at Franklin Academy, students newly accepted for the upcoming academic year, and students enrolled at other schools who meet our admissions requirements.
The purpose of the program is for students to have fun, make friends, improve social skills, and develop independent living skills while engaging in content-specific areas of interest called "Paths." Many Franklin Academy students participate in Summer Sojourn in order to enjoy electives that are not available during the regular school year. For newly accepted students, the Summer Sojourn is a great introduction to campus, faculty, and other students. Indeed, at the opening of school in September, new students who have participated in this program know what to expect at Franklin Academy, greatly lessening the anxiety typically associated with change.
Students who attend other public or private schools also benefit from Summer Sojourn at Franklin Academy. They experience what it feels like to be with a natural peer group and to work with experienced teachers who are knowledgeable about NLD and Aspergers. Here is what a Speech-Language Pathologist at a private school in Texas said in a recent email: “I worked with a student today who attended both sessions of your Summer Sojourn program. Her eye contact with another student and myself was much improved. She shared with confidence a few things from the summer, including the fact that she had friends. These were shared without numerous prompts or questions.
I can see that the program provided her with a positive opportunity for social growth and maturity. Thank you for your enriching program for NLD adolescents.”
It is not unusual for students to maintain newly forged friendships throughout the year even when separated by distance and attendance at different schools. Indeed, many will return for multiple summers! We also encourage students going into eighth grade to consider Summer Sojourn as a way to determine whether Franklin Academy is the right place for their high school education.
 |
 |
| Blast-off! |
The Chance to Fly |
Here is a list of popular Sojourn Areas and Paths that we will offer for the summer of 2010.
| Arts |
Science & Technology |
Planet Earth |
Landscape Painting
Theater
Guitar Jam
Screen Printing
|
Robotics
Paranormal Research
Aeronautics
Forensic Science
Myth Busters |
Ecology
Estuary Studies
Organic Gardening
Fishing
|
| Animals |
Communication |
Leadership |
Animal Behavior
Horseback Riding &
Equine Studies
|
Pod Casting
Creative Writing
|
Community Service
Group Dynamics
Social Causes
First Aid & CPR Training
|
 |
 |
| The Art of Fishing |
Kayaking on the Campus Pond |
Franklin Evaluation Center (additional fee)
This option is designed for students needing updated testing or re-evaluation. A complete assessment will be conducted during either two-week session. Students will be able to participate in a path and activities while being evaluated. The pace of the testing is more relaxed, students are less anxious, and evaluators are better able to gain keener insights and make informed recommendations since Summer Sojourn provides a broader frame of reference about student performance and behavior.
The typical daily schedule for Summer Sojourn is as follows:
8:30 - 9:00
9:00 - 9:30
9:30 - 12:30
12:30 - 1:30
1:30 - 4:30
4:30 - 5:30
5:30 - 6:15
7:00 - 9:15
9:30 - 10:00
10:30
|
Breakfast
Community Meeting
Path
Lunch
Path
Activity
Dinner
Evening Activity
In dorm
Lights out
|
Activities are numerous and appeal to a wide range of interests. Afternoon activities include swimming, biking, arts and crafts, fishing, hiking, fitness, and golf, as well as field and gym sports. Evening activities focus on a variety of opportunities, including astronomy, cooking, movies, bowling, campfires and barbecues. The weekend schedule offers more leisurely activities, including excursions throughout Connecticut, to New York City, and to Boston, beach trips, concerts, summer stock theatre, camping, miniature golf, and shopping.
 |
 |
| A Trip to Yankee Stadium |
Whale Watch Excursion |
Franklin Academy administrators provide program oversight for Summer Sojourn. Franklin faculty, supplemented by specialists in the field, teach the summer electives, sponsor activities, and supervise the residence halls. Finally, a growing number of Franklin Academy alumni, now in college, serve as mentors and resident advisors.
The boarding fee for each session is $2,500 or $4,500 for both sessions; this covers tuition, room and board, laundry, and the activities fee. The day fee is $2,000 for each session or $3,750 for both sessions. Applications for either session are now being accepted. For more information, please call the Franklin Academy Admissions Office at 860-873-2700, extension 114 or 154, or email admissions@fa-ct.org.
 |
 |
| Great Friendships |
Into the Wild Blue Yonder |
|
