COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

P.O. BOX 2120

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120

SUPTS. MEMO NO. 4

January 5, 2006

INFORMATIONAL

TO:	Division Superintendents
FROM:	Patricia I. Wright Acting Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT:	National Youth Science Camp (NYSC)

The National Youth Science Camp (NYSC) is an intense month-long camp for young scientists conducted during the summer after they graduate from high school. In a rustic setting, students from around the country are challenged academically in exciting lectures and hands-on studies. Participants have many opportunities to push themselves physically in an extensive outdoor program, gain a new and deep appreciation for the great outdoors, and establish friendships that last a lifetime.

Two students are chosen to represent Virginia as delegates to the National Youth Science Camp. Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

· be candidates for high school graduation in the spring of 2006;

· be available to participate in the entire NYSC program (June 25 to July 16, 2006);

· intend to pursue a profession oriented toward science, mathematics, engineering, or medicine;

· demonstrate superior academic proficiency, including recognition in mathematics and/or the sciences;

· demonstrate an application of leadership abilities and social maturity through involvement in both school and community activities;

· demonstrate skills and achievements outside the realm of science and outside the realm of academic pursuits; and

· demonstrate a curiosity and an eagerness to explore many and varied topics.

Information about the National Youth Science Camp and applications may be obtained at the National Youth Science Camp Web site, http://www.nysc.org/. The applications should be mailed to the following address so they are received no later than February 17, 2006:

Eric Rhoades, Science Coordinator

Office of Middle and High School Instruction

Virginia Department of Education

P.O. Box 2120

Richmond, VA 23218-2120.

For further information, please contact Eric M. Rhoades (Eric.Rhoades@doe.virginia.gov), at (804) 225-2676.

PIW/ER/yba