Aspen Science Center

(HS)2

hs2 logo

The High School High Scholar (HS)2 Program provides a three-year summer residential accelerated learning environment in mathematics and sciences for students traditionally underrepresented in these fields.  Based on (MS)2, at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts since 1977,  the programs were designed in response to the evidence "that a strong background in mathematics and science, gained during the high school years, is essential to enable a young person to prepare successfully for a career in a mathematics/science-based profession." (MS)2 has been successful in delivering the training, experience, and intellectual path that prefigures success in college and beyond. With its first class graduating this summer, (HS)2 is achieving the same goals.

The (HS)2 program offers students, from groups traditionally underrepresented in the fields of science and math, the opportunity to immerse themselves in the study of mathematics and science for five weeks, during three consecutive summers, while living in a state-of-the-art college preparatory boarding school in the Rocky Mountains.

The (HS)2 program provides students with the skills, confidence, and knowledge they need to excel in the mathematics and science courses they will be taking at their public schools.  The program supplements the student's academic experience with a broad foundation and an introduction to advanced concepts, enabling students to return to their schools with a broader and deeper knowledge of the subject matter.  The rigor and relevance of the courses are designed to help the (HS)2 scholar become more self-reliant and self-sufficient as a student and a member of the community.

  • First year students take Algebra, Biology, and an English course covering the fundamentals of writing and analytical reading.
  • Second year students progress to Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, and Literary Analysis.
  • Third year students complete the program with courses in Calculus, Physics, and College Counseling.  Students participate in an intensive college planning workshop, meet with college admissions representatives, and design a college application plan.
  • In addition, students take a course in Computer Science and participate in cultural and developmental activities that focus on leadership, community, and individual growth.

Students spend a majority of their day engaged in academic studies; the homework load is intensive and expectations are high. Academic work is balanced by afternoon activities and evening/weekend community gatherings that depend upon the location of the program and the size of the group, and take advantage of the unique location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Students in the program stay connected with (HS)2 during the academic year to ensure that their personal bond with the program is continually reinforced while away from campus.

Tuition, room, board, and textbooks -- and in some instances travel and/or expenses -- are paid for by the program.

Admission to the program is highly selective, and is based on scholastic achievement, academic and leadership potential, interest in mathematics and science, personal recommendations of teachers and counselors, and financial need.

To apply, students must be: in 9th grade, currently enrolled in public school (this includes public charter and public magnet schools), plan to successfully complete Algebra by the end of 9th grade, be a member of a group traditionally underrepresented in science and math (African American, Hispanic/Latino,  or Native American), be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident with  a Permanent Resident Card (I-551), and have a valid social security number.  Acceptance into the program will be conditioned on an applicant providing proof of eligibility, to the satisfaction of the Aspen Science Center.

Students accepted into (HS)2 begin the program the summer following their 9th grade year, and then graduate from the program the summer following their 11th grade year -- ready to apply to college.

Graduation July 2009

 

The application process for Summer 2010 has closed.