Summer Sojourn 2011

Session 1      June 29 - July 12

Session 2        July 13 - July 26

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.”

 

Ultimate Frisbee -- the Favorite Sojourn Activity	Be Back Home By Dinner!

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 perennially popular Sojourn Areas and Paths.

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 psycho-educational 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:

The Big One that Did Not Get Away	A Perfect Summer Afternoon

Activities are numerous and appeal to a wide range of interests. Afternoon activities including swimming, biking, arts and crafts, fishing, hiking, and fitness, as well as field and gym sports. Evening activities focus on a variety of opportunities, including movies, bowling, mini golf, trivia night, barbecues, and campfires. The weekend schedule offers more leisurely activities, including excursions throughout Connecticut, to New York City, and to Boston, beach trips, concerts, summer stock theater, 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 $2,750 or $5,000 for both sessions; this covers tuition, room and board, laundry, and the activities fee. The day fee is $2,250 for each session or $4,000 for both sessions. 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

Instructions for Parents of Applicant

Student Questionnaire

Parent Questionnaire