Thanks to a generous grant from the Polk County Community Foundation, Polk County Schools is proud to offer Advanced Learning and AIG students the opportunity to attend a free one-week Summer Seminar this summer – and registration is open now.
Seven unique seminars are available, covering everything from robotics and 3D printing to herbalism, paper cutting, space exploration and global cultures. Each course is designed to challenge, inspire and engage advanced learners in hands-on, real-world learning experiences that go far beyond the traditional classroom.
Courses are open to rising 4th through 9th graders, with sessions running June and July at locations including Polk County Middle School, Tryon Elementary School and Pearson Falls and Glen.
A few important reminders for families:
- Students may attend one seminar only
- Check course dates, times, locations, and grade ranges carefully before registering
- Students must be willing and able to follow directions and actively engage with their course
- Spots are limited – some courses may fill quickly
- Registration deadline is May 25, 2026; courses that do not reach minimum enrollment by the deadline will be cancelled
Note: The 3D Printing with TinkerCad course is already full.
To register, visit https://forms.gle/mDfoEwAWSJ9bUH1r9.
Computer Science with Sphero Robotics
Instructor: Jonathan Greene
Location: Polk County Middle School, Room 116
Grades: Rising 4th–6th
Dates & Times: June 15–18, 9 AM–1 PM
Description: Students will program Sphero BOLT and RVR+ robots and use Sphero Blueprint Kits to design, build, and test creative robotic solutions while developing collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving skills.
3D Printing with TinkerCad and a 3D Scanner — FULL
Instructor: Matthew Dellinger
Location: Polk County Middle School, Room 115
Grades: Rising 4th–6th
Dates & Times: July 20–23, 9 AM–1 PM
Description: Students are introduced to 3D printing and modeling using TinkerCad and learn to use a 3D scanner. Each student designs and prints a 3D object. This course is full.
Culture and Cuisine Camp
Instructor: Khrista Simpson
Location: Tryon Elementary School, STEM Lab
Grades: Rising 4th–6th
Dates & Times: June 15–18, 9 AM–1 PM
Description: Travel the world without leaving camp! Students explore different countries, learn about their traditions, and make snacks inspired by each culture. No cooking experience needed — just bring curiosity and appetite.
Space Exploration Camp
Instructor: Stefanie Tyler
Location: Tryon Elementary School
Grades: Rising 4th–6th
Dates & Times: June 22–26, 9 AM–12 PM
Description: Students explore planetary science and engineer solutions for human survival in space, developing a Mars colony proposal covering habitat construction, life support systems, and sustainability planning. The program culminates in a formal mission presentation.
Lego Robotics and Archeology
Instructor: Eric Riberdy
Location: Polk County Middle School
Grades: Rising 4th–6th
Dates & Times: July 13–16, 8:30 AM–12:30 PM
Description: Students design, build, and operate Lego Spike Prime robots to complete challenges while also studying the science of archeology and the impact technology can have on the field. Families are invited to a cumulative robotics display on the final day.
Cuttin’ It Up!
Instructor: Charlotte Grabman
Location: Polk County Middle School
Grades: Rising 7th–9th
Dates & Times: July 6–10, 9 AM–12 PM
Description: Students explore Scherenschnitte, the Swiss-German art of paper cutting, creating a framed masterpiece to take home. The week may include a special visit from master artist Marie-Helene Grabman, whose work has been displayed at the Swiss National Museum and the White House.
Herbalism and Alchemy
Instructor: Jeanne Ferran
Location: Pearson Falls and Glen
Grades: Rising 7th–9th
Dates & Times: June 22–26, 9 AM–12:45 PM
Description: Students explore a rich cove habitat and the practice of herbalism, learning to make teas, syrups, and dyes from local flora. This camp is 100% outdoors — be prepared!
