National Federation of the Blind
Youth Slam 2011
A STEM Leadership Academy
Watch the 2009 NFB Youth Slam video to learn more about the exciting aspects of an NFB Youth Slam.
Click here to view the 2011 NFB Youth Slam flyer (PDF).
Before filling out the applications, please read the information below.
When
July 17-23, 2011
Students will arrive on on Sunday afternoon and depart on Saturday morning.
Where
The program will be held at Towson University located in Towson, Maryland approximately eight miles north of Baltimore. It is the second largest university in Maryland. Washington, D.C., the nation's capital, is less than an hour away.
Who
One hundred fifty blind high school students will be selected to participate in this program. Students who would like to be considered must complete the online application and submit it to the Jernigan Institute by March 1, 2011. Students need not have a strong interest in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) in order to participate, enjoy, and benefit from this academy. Students will be randomly selected from those eligible to participate. This means that the student must be able to perform basic self-care skills; have some degree of independent travel skills; be able to read Braille, print, or both; and should, at a minimum, be able to understand content appropriate for students entering the ninth grade.
What
This five-day academy will engage and inspire the next generation of blind youth to consider careers falsely believed to be impossible for the blind and bring a unified voice to the next generation of blind professionals. While staying on a college campus, students will be mentored by blind role models during fun and challenging activities meant to build confidence and increase science literacy. Activities will take place with help from instructional supporters such as institutions and corporations working in STEM-related fields. The NFB Youth Slam will culminate with an exciting closing event in our nation’s capital.
Cost
There is no cost to apply for the program. Please note however, students who apply and are accepted to the Youth Slam will be expected to pay a $250 registration fee by May 1, 2011. The total value of the program is estimated at approximately $3,000 per student, including transportation, room and board, materials, and cost of staff and mentors. The NFB and other Youth Slam partners will cover the balance of the program cost. Additionally, local members of the NFB will be available to assist students in raising the registration fee if necessary.
How to Apply
Applications for 2011 NFB Youth Slam students are now closed.
Adults Interested in Serving as Volunteers
Applications for 2011 Youth Slam volunteers are now closed.
Notification of Acceptance
Selected student and volunteer participants will be notified by e-mail and regular mail of their acceptance status by April 1, 2011. Selections of participants will not be made until after the deadline of March 1, so as to give all who are interested in applying an opportunity to do so.
Follow updates about the NFB Youth Slam
Follow us on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/NFBScience
Stay up-to-date on the latest information with the NFB Science blog.
Partners, Sponsors, and Supporters
Natalie Shaheen, Director of Education
National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute
(410) 659-9314, extension 2293
E-mail: youthslam@nfb.org
