New Scholar Academy

The students are bused from their home high school to Med Tech. Mentors bring students to the gymnasium to get signed in and listen to keynote speaker. The counselors, nurse, and some teachers give a basic orientation: academic services, login numbers and other relevant information.

After lunch and ice breakers, the students participate in scavenger hunt tours. Students then listen to the librarian as she guides them through secure and valid databases. Last, students regroup in the science wing and participate in a short web-based computer activity, explore Med Tech’s website, view study skills strategies, organize their notebooks and get a feel for the next day’s agenda.

The core of the NSA program is designed to introduce students to scientific research through hands - on lab activities. These activities are centered on our school’s theme - Careers in Medical Professions. The activities serve as background to design a health survey. A statistical test is applied to analyze the significance of the results, and a power point presentation is created to present and discuss the results.

On their final day, the students give their presentations within their teams, and they receive feedback from peers and mentors using the rubric provided. Next, each team merges the individual presentations into team presentations. After lunch and the door prizes, the teams proceed to the gymnasium to prepare for the technical aspects of the presentations.

Eight five-minute presentations are shared with faculty, mentors and peers. The judges apply the rubric and points are tallied. The best presentation is announced and team members and mentors awarded. Last, awards are presented to various students and mentors for special contributions, and refreshments are provided.