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 website, 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