Missouri School for the Blind is pleased to offer Missouri students who are blind or visually impaired five (5) summer sessions focused on developing students’ abilities to access Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Performing Arts or Activities of Daily Living with increased independence. Through Summer Explorations, MSB seeks to provide a non-traditional, high-quality, academic, and functional program designed to supplement the student’s regular educational experience with an emphasis on the Expanded Core Curriculum for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
STEM Session 1: Explorations in STEM: Engineering Amusement – provides an engaging program for students in grades 7-12 to learn STEM concepts utilizing MSB’s state-of-the-art computer and science laboratories which are designed to increase access and independence for students who are blind or visually impaired. During this session, students will explore the STEM behind the exciting world of amusement parks. Students will design their own thrill rides, learn how engineers optimize traffic flow, and even concoct their own amusement park confections. One entire day will also be spent exploring Six Flags-St. Louis.
STEM Session 2: Explorations in STEM: CSI Summer – Students enrolled in this session will use the tools of STEM to investigate mysteries and solve simulated cases just like the professionals. Participants will use adaptive laboratory equipment and the newest computer and assistive technologies developed specifically for the blind and visually impaired to help them gather, analyze, and apply information to solve cases. CSI Summer participants will visit community-based STEM venues, meet professionals in the field, and have the opportunity to expand their social circle.
PA Session 1 and Session 2: Explorations in Performing Arts: Live on Stage I and II – Explorations in Performing Arts are 2-week immersion programs designed to introduce students to a variety of performing arts skills and concepts, culminating in a stage and variety/talent show. Students will work on independent performance skills as well as performing as a group. Session 1 is designed to accommodate students in grades 3-8; Session 2 will accommodate students in grades 7-12. During Explorations in Performing Arts, students will learn performance skills by experiencing and participating in a variety of lessons and activities. Students will attend live performances at the Muny, tour a professional theatre, and have the opportunity to discuss careers in the theatre with professionals in the field.
Independent Living: Explorations in Independent Living is a 4-week immersion program designed to introduce students age 16 to 21 who are blind or visually impaired to the skills and concepts necessary to live, work, and play independently in the community in a supported, simulated 24-hour a day program. Explorations in Independent Living participants will live in the MSB Suites or LIFE Apartment, develop job skills, and work or volunteer either on-campus or in the community, and participate in community-based leisure activities. During Explorations in Independent Living students will be introduced to VI friendly methods to plan and prepare their own meals, shop for groceries on a set budget, maintain their own clothing and living space, under the direction of and limited supervision from MSB staff. Daily, students participate in four structured, supported sessions including: Applied Academic Skills, Applied Activities of Daily Living, Employment Skills Development, and Leisure Recreation Skills.
Visit http://msb.dese.mo.gov/SummerPrograms.html for more information, including a schedule of events and the registration form. Parents may also contact Joy Waddell, Assistant Superintendent, at 314-776-4320 (ext. 1140) or joyce.waddell@msb.dese.mo.gov.
* STEM summer sessions are provided free of charge for qualifying students.
* Transportation and supervised residential housing are provided for students outside the St. Louis metro area during the week. Students return home on weekends.
