Parents – The Gatton Academy News

Gatton Academy Adventure Week: Move-In Day

August 19, 2013 | Alumni, News, Parents, Staff, Student Life, Students | No Comments

[fblike] Alex Kearns
After an exhausting yet exciting Sunday, I would like to announce that the Gatton Academy Class of 2015 has arrived! First, WELCOME to all new students not only from myself but also the other seniors and staff. I hope as you settle in, that we will act as an invaluable resource and help you adjust to the “college” lifestyle. And to the parents, relax; your student will be alright.

After an early start for community leaders, the juniors started rolling in around 8:30. If they were lucky, only 4 or 5 seniors would help them unload their vehicles. For those unfortunate others, they were met with 20 hoarding seniors dying to know who had arrived! Thankfully our enthusiasm didn’t scare anyone off. After the students had checked in at the front desk, they headed up to their new home where they met their RC’s, roommates, and newest friends. Instantly, you could see the life-long friendships forming.

Once the students were more or less moved in, they were taken to Mass Media for a final meeting with their parents, staff and community leaders. Topics discussed included: study abroad trips, a few research opportunities, and homesickness. As the session concluded, parents were asked to say their goodbyes to their students. And after a few tears, the parents left their students to begin their new adventure.

The day ended on a perfect note as Gatton students attended the Andy Grammer concert and enjoyed a pizza party.

We will keep you posted throughout the week on all the activities here at Gatton.

By Gatton Academy

Empty Nests, Watery Eyes Among Parents of Class of 2013 as Move-In Day Arrives

August 22, 2011 | News, Parents, People, Student Life, Students | No Comments

by Charlotte Humes, Academy Avatar

Nobody said taking care of a child was easy.

For many parents, moving their child out of the house for the first time is one of the most difficult parts of the experience. Luckily, despite a quick survey of the activity revealing a few less-than-dry eyes, the overall attitude of the families moving in members of Gatton’s Class of 2013 was clearly positive.

Mark Allen, father of Cecily Allen, commented on this contradiction. “We’re excited but sad,” a combination I heard echoed by other parents. He added that this was his daughter’s “first extended period away from home,” but that “coming to orientation and preview weekends really helped.”

The fact that this was the second child to move out the home, he said, “definitely makes it easier.”

Fran Hamilton, the mother of Gabrielle Hamilton, felt similarly. A true veteran at this, with Gabrielle being her third, and final, child to move out of the house, she said that while she and her husband think it is “easier in some ways with each one you move out, and we are very excited for the great experience for our daughter, losing the youngest, the baby, is definitely toughest.”

She paused before adding, “We’re empty-nesters now.” No matter how many times the parents had been through this, or what amount of help that offered, it was still a challenge.

Naturally, there was an element of nervousness in their good-byes. Many parents mentioned that the distance would be difficult to handle. The most common concern was their child’s time management wanting to make sure that they “got their work done and studied.” Of course, the news that the Academy provides students with the resources to learn about and develop study skills, along with the reminder of mandatory study hours, helped ease parents’ minds, at least on that account.

Despite having the same concerns as any other parent would, Rob Johnson, father of Justin Johnson, weighed in on such things. “It’s a great opportunity, and I like that he’s moving in now, even though he’s younger. It gives him a safety net, so he’s able to ask for help and have a second family here, much better than just dropping him off all on his own in two years.”

Other parents repeated his beliefs, expressing relief that they were leaving their children in capable hands. While it may come as a surprise, age seemed to not bother most of the parents. “Age doesn’t matter,” said Karen, Justin’s mother. “He’s always been so mature, and he seems ready, so I’m not bothered.” Mike and Trish Smith, Ethan’s parents, also mentioned that “the fact that he’s sixteen doesn’t really change anything,” and that, regardless, while “the Academy gives greater challenge and independence, it also provides a lot of support.”

After a quick meeting with the staff, parents were asked to say their final good-byes. As children and their parents embraced, promising to keep in close contact, all were confident in their decision. The Academy will provide these 78 students with a second family, along with amazing opportunities, and everyone seemed to recognize this.

The final sentiment I heard echoed all around? “I love you,” said as parents let their child begin their next grand adventure.

By Corey Alderdice

Join Us for Parents’ Weekend on Saturday, October 16

October 12, 2010 | News, Parents, People, Staff, Student Life, Students, WKU | No Comments

On Saturday, October 16, 2010, Gatton Academy students and staff will be honored at the start of the second quarter of the WKU/Louisiana-Monroe football game.

As it happens, Saturday is also Parents’ Weekend on campus. In celebration of both events, the Academy will hold a cookout at 4 p.m. on the Schneider Hall patio. We cordially invite parents, friends, and other family members to join us for burgers, hotdogs, and the trimmings and stay for the football game.

Parking will not be available in the Schneider Hall Lot for the event. We suggest Parking Structure 1 or the lots across from Cherry Hall. A full tailgating and parking map is available at the following link:

http://parking1.wku.edu/dnn/Parking/ParkingMaps/2010TailgatingMap/tabid/154/Default.aspx

Kick-off is slated for 6 p.m. at Houchens-L.T. Smith Stadium. Tickets may be purchased at the gate for $6 or in advance by telephoning 1-800-5-BIG-RED.

Parents are asked to RSVP online at http://gattonparents10.eventbrite.com no later than Noon on Thursday, October 14, 2010.

For more information, contact Corey Alderdice at academy@wku.edu.

By Corey Alderdice

[Photo Album] Welcome to Campus, Class of 2012!

August 23, 2010 | News, Parents, People, Photos, Student Life, Students, WKU | No Comments

Photos by Suzanne Van Arsdall, Academy Avatar

After months of applications, interviews, waiting, and planning, the Gatton Academy is proud to finally welcome our Class of 2012 to campus for Adventure Week and the start of an exciting two-year journey.

[flickr album=72157624667833395 num=100 size=Square]

By Corey Alderdice

Parents Experience Mixed Emotions as Students Begin Their Academy Experience

August 23, 2010 | News, Parents, People, Student Life, Students | No Comments

A family unpacks as part of move in for the Class of 2012.

by Krysta Waldrop, Academy Avatar

Emotions ran high on Sunday as parents helped their children move into Schneider Hall. For many families this was the first time they unloaded a car on a university campus–two years earlier than when the average student would leave for college.

Every parent handled the situation differently: some families encouraged their teens to socialize with other students in the common areas while others chose to spend most of their time together before departing.

Throughout the various meetings which took place during the day, parents asked a variety of questions, ranging from living arrangements to major traveling opportunities offered by the Gatton Academy.

Many parents were anxious about permitting their child to go into the care of strangers at such a young age and sad to see their teens leave. One parent stated, “I’m excited for my son, but it’s sad. I’ve been crying all week.”

Other parents, instead, had a lighthearted approach. “Well, I’m okay, and he’s certainly happy that I’m leaving now,” laughed a parent as she toted empty boxes back to her vehicle. Overall, they appeared to be reluctant to depart, but it was also apparent they were aware of, and passionate about, the countless opportunities that were now available to the new Academy juniors.

For some families, this wasn’t their first experience with the Gatton Academy; the Class of 2012 contains several students who are the siblings of former and current Gatton Academy students.

The Missik family, parents of Justine Missik (Boyle, ’11) and Lucas Missik (Boyle, ’12) were asked to compare their two experiences with letting their children attend the Academy. “It’s certainly easier this time; we aren’t as anxious,” noted their mother, Christine. “We know the people who work here and we know more about the program, so there’s less to worry about.”

The Class of 2012 has another student whose parents are familiar with the Gatton Academy, but not in the same fashion as the Missiks.

Dr. Claus Ernst and Dr. Uta Ziegler, two professors at Western Kentucky University, moved their son, Markus Ernst (Warren, ’12) into Florence Schneider Hall this year. The two WKU professors currently teach Computational Problem Solving and helped to originate the course during the program’s first year.

Ernst and Ziegler are very involved with the Gatton Academy and are often in contact with the Academy Director Tim Gott as well as other staff members. “This will be much less difficult for us than it will be for other parents who are here today,” said Dr. Ziegler. “We know a lot about the Academy, and we’ve worked closely with them for a long time.”

As the day came to a close, the remaining parents were required to leave. Despite their anxiety and reluctance to see their children living similarly to traditional college undergrad, they left feeling optimistic. Several parents noted that while it is hard to have a child leave the house, the Gatton Academy provides each student with an incredible experience filled with so many opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to them.

By Corey Alderdice

2010-11 Student Life Handbook Now Available Online

August 23, 2010 | Academics, News, Parents, People, Staff, Student Life, Students | No Comments

The 2010-11 Student Life Handbook for Gatton Academy students is now available for download. Class of 2012 students received drafts of the document earlier this week. Please review the updated copy to ensure your understanding of revisions under academic expectations, attendance, graduation requirements, and student life policies. Many components of the Handbook also apply to the Class of 2011 as well.

Students and parents should pay particular attention to the new Class Attendance and Conduct Policy as well as the Classroom Intervention Program.

Any questions regarding academic policies should be directed to the Academy Academic Coordinator April Gaskey. All questions regarding student life should be directed to Beth Hawke, Coordinator for Residence Life.

By Corey Alderdice

Class of 2012 Arrives to Smiling Faces, Big Adventure

August 23, 2010 | News, Parents, People, Student Life, Students | No Comments

Incoming student Gabby Canant is greeted by Community Developer Tina Stottman upon arrivial for Adventure Week. (photo by Suzanne Van Arsdall)

by Sydney Combs, Academy Avatar

Early Sunday morning, a small army of Community Leaders stood–clad in bright green Gatton Academy attire–ready to swarm the first Class of 2012 student to arrive. When that lucky junior pulled into the parking lot at 8:15 in the morning, swarm the upperclassmen did.

Like kids to free candy, the Community Leaders flocked to each incoming junior and their family, transporting their belongings from the car to their room before they could even turn around. After a day of trucks and trunks filled with bins and duffel bags, all first-year students were moved in around two o’clock, ready to begin Adventure Week.

This first step into real life evoked mixed emotions from the students, parents, siblings, and staff members alike.

While Tucker Joyce (Mercer, ’12) moved into his room on the second floor, his grandfather and siblings sat patiently, confident in Tucker’s abilities to succeed at the Academy. Bryan Joyce, Tucker’s grandfather, seemed at ease, commenting on how his only concern was for his grandchildren and how they would fair missing their brother. “It’ll be tough,” he stated, “They are all three very close.”

Tucker’s brother Bailey, on the other hand, was more optimistic, focusing instead on how often Tucker will get to come home throughout the year. When asked how his parents felt about Tucker leaving, Bailey answered, “Well, right now they are pretty protective but I think that will change. It’s like they are sad to leave, but happy to let him go.”

It seemed like these conflicting feelings ran rampant throughout the parental community, striking victims such as Jay Porter, father of Jaymi Porter (Carter, ’12), “My feelings about Jaymi moving in are mixed; I’m a little sad but mostly excited. I know Jaymi can handle it.” However, when asked about moving in, Jaymi stated that she was only a little nervous, but mostly ready to start classes. She said, “I have been waiting all summer for this and now that I’m here, I’m just ready to jump right in and get started.”

Courageous and anxious for work, Jaymi’s confidence in herself was parallel to that of her parents. This also appeared to be the case for others such as Nikolaus Dilger, father of Daniel Dilger (Boone, ’12), who exhibited little worry for his son, “No, nope. Daniel has lived on campus twice and already has friends coming into the program. The atmosphere here is comfortable and with such unique people, he will undoubtedly feel at home.” For such a monumental step in the students’ and parents’ lives, the grace of the transition by all members was admirable.

As Academy Director Tim Gott mentioned early Sunday morning, “I am more excited about this year’s move-in than in years past. The program is getting better every year, and it started out pretty well to begin with. With the collective wisdom of our Residential Counselors and staff downstairs, I believe our years of experience will come together in a powerful way.”

With the apparent poise of the Junior class, supportive shoes provided by families, guidance from the Academy staff, and a cheering crowd of Seniors, there is no doubt that the recent additions to the Academy will provide a stunning performance.

By Corey Alderdice

Full Video: Gatton Academy Third Annual Commencement (2010)

May 15, 2010 | Alumni, News, Parents, People, Staff, Student Success, Video, WKU | No Comments

Gatton Academy Third Annual Commencement (2010) from Gatton Academy on Vimeo.

Celebration of Commencement Weekend at Western Kentucky University continued on Saturday as The Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky honored its third graduating class of high school seniors.

Fifty-one students representing 37 counties from across the Commonwealth were recognized during the ceremony at the newly renovated Van Meter Auditorium. The ceremony not only celebrated the significant accomplishments of the program and its graduates over the last two years but also looked toward the infinite possibilities ahead.

Gatton Academy Executive Director Dr. Julia Roberts expressed the day’s events were both a celebration of the Class of 2010’s personal accomplishments and a starting point toward their work of creating a better Kentucky.

“Kentucky’s future is brighter today because you are graduates of the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science,” Roberts said. “What wonderful contributions you will make in the fields of mathematics, science, engineering and technology. I look forward to hearing about your leadership in STEM fields in Kentucky and beyond in the not-so-distant future.”

WKU President Dr. Gary Ransdell lauded not only the graduates’ academic accomplishments but also the instruction they have received in becoming better leaders.

“I hope you’ve understood those lessons and values that allow you to command leadership positions,” he said. “And I hope you take with you the motto of this university: The spirit makes the master. I hope wherever you may go, that path leads back to Kentucky.”

Chris Guthrie, President of Trace Die Cast, Inc., delivered the commencement address. Guthrie also encouraged the graduates to enjoy a wide variety of life experiences; however, he advised them to make a difference in their state.

“We have a great state, and I challenge you to see more of it,” he said. “When the time comes to start your business, your medical practice or research institute, come back to Kentucky. We need your talent. Go out and experience great things and come back and help us build a better Commonwealth.”

Over the past two years, Gatton Academy students have taken advanced coursework in mathematics, science and other subjects at WKU in fulfillment of high school requirements and the Gatton Academy curriculum. In all, students have each earned more than 60 hours of college credit.

Gatton Academy Director Tim Gott shared his gratitude with attending faculty members for their role in making the program’s learning environment a challenging and rewarding experience for students.

“Of the many things these students have pursued, one particular area of significance is the opportunity to conduct research,” Gott said. “Many of the faculty with us today have mentored these students as they explored new techniques in chemistry, environmental issues in geography and geology, unknown frontiers in astronomy and physics, potential medical breakthroughs in biology, life-enhancing concepts in engineering and unique applications in math and computer science. Those who engaged in these research projects have truly brought relevance to the rigor.”

Three out of five graduates participated in a facilitated research project with university faculty members. Research accomplishments include WKU’s second Department of Defense SMART scholarship recipient, a student presentation before the Keystone Center’s National Energy Board, and a DAAD RISE scholarship winner.

Anna Walter, a graduating senior from Burlington, reflected upon her experience as an Academy student and the potential she and her classmates have to affect global change.

“The Academy has given us the opportunities we need not only to succeed in our chosen fields but also to excel in them by providing that extra little push to go from ordinary to the extraordinary,” she said. “It is that little extra that distinguishes the leaders from the followers, the innovators from the reproducers and the great from the average.”

In pursuit of those academic and personal goals, three out of five graduates plan to attend Kentucky higher education institutions with 8 continuing their studies at WKU.

In the fall of 2010, representatives from the graduating class will attend 20 schools across the United States: Belmont University; Cornell University; Georgia Institute of Technology; Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Morehead State University; Mount Holyoke College; Princeton University; Purdue University; Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology; Stanford University; Transylvania University; Union University; University of Chicago; University of Delaware; University of Kentucky; University of Louisville; University of Tennessee, Knoxville; University of Washington; Vanderbilt University and Western Kentucky University.

Four-year scholarships totaling more than $10.3 million were offered to the graduating class, while more than $3.5 million in four-year scholarships were accepted.

Twelve members of the senior class were named Kentucky Governor’s Scholars. Ten members of the class were selected as National Merit finalists. In all, seniors completed a total of 1,948 hours of community service during their time at the Gatton Academy.

“These students have taken the most rigorous curriculum offered to any high school student in the nation,” Gott said. “They left the comfort of home and established a level of independence that will impact their lives forever. They have forged new friendships which will grow exponentially in the years to come. They have given themselves in community service throughout the state inspiring younger students, building new homes and expanding awareness of the opportunities in math and science. They will become the leaders of this great Commonwealth.”

Ryne Weiss, a graduating senior from Richmond, explained the role that students’ families, both genetic and created, had on their time as Academy students.

“This experience would not be possible if you didn’t have generous parents who would do the unthinkable and let you pursue the greatest academic opportunity available,” Weiss said. “Eventually, we will also see our Academy family again. They will be on the news, they will be on the cover of Nature, Popular Science or Time. We will see each other again and we will be proud, like family.”

By Corey Alderdice

Full Video: Senior Recognition Ceremony for the Class of 2010

May 15, 2010 | News, Parents, People, Staff, Student Life, Student Success, Video | No Comments

Senior Recognition Ceremony for the Class of 2010 from Gatton Academy on Vimeo.

The Gatton Academy administration honors the graduating Class of 2010 during the Senior Recognition Ceremony. Students were recognized for honors, research, service, Community Developers, Academy Avatars, and more. Students also shared their appreciation for Academy staff members’ guidance and support. Finally, Academy Director Tim Gott played a game of TIMGO with students while sharing some parting thoughts.

By Corey Alderdice

Gatton Academy Honors Third Class of Graduates

May 15, 2010 | Alumni, News, Parents, People, Student Life, Student Success, WKU | No Comments

Celebration of Commencement Weekend at Western Kentucky University continued on Saturday as The Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky honored its third graduating class of high school seniors.