Multicultural Programs
Serving underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students who have talent and interest in mathematics and science is a high priority of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. We believe that we must actively recruit from all regions of the state of Illinois. In addition, we believe we must address the challenges of underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students through contact and intervention in the form of academic enrichment programming early in students' educational experience in order to be most effective. After enrolling at IMSA it is important that students experience the Academy as a place that is welcoming to them as individuals; and supportive of the unique cultural components that each student brings with them.
The Academy continues to create and develop a culturally rich and inclusive environment that affirms and celebrates individual and group differences.
The PROMISE brochure (PDF, 16 KB) describes PROMISE in one page, in English and en español.
The PROMISE Parent Letter (PDF, 27 KB) briefly introduces PROMISE to parents of prospective students, in English and en español.
For more information about multicultural programs and services please send an email to diversity@imsa.edu.
- PROMISE-Early Involvement Program (EIP)
- PROMISE-Summer Enrichment for Academics in Mathematics and Science (SEAMS)
PROMISE - Early Involvement Program (EIP)
Download the 2007-2008 PROMISE-Early Involvement Program (EIP) Application (PDF, 344KB) and introductory letter (PDF, 108KB).
The EIP typically serves students enrolled in ninth grade. This program is designed to help underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students improve their mathematics, science, and English skills. In addition, EIP serves to support the participants' preparation for application to IMSA, should they choose to apply. The EIP is held on 7-12 consecutive Saturdays during the fall and early spring. The program includes discovery-based and collaborative research activities as well as some preparation for the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). Students develop research, decision-making and self-motivation skills while studying mathematics, wellness, science, and English literature. Students and parents also attend an all-day retreat at IMSA.
Dates and locations for the 2007-2008 Academic Year information is available in the introductory letter.
For more information about the EIP please send an email to diversity@imsa.edu.
PROMISE - Summer Enrichment for Academics in Mathematics and Science (SEAMS)
SEAMS is designed to serve students in the summer after their eighth grade year. This two-week, residential experience is designed to improve students' mathematics, science, and English skills. Group inquiry and problem-solving are a primary focus in the academic curriculum. In addition, the residence hall experience focuses on interpersonal skill development. The SEAMS program is held at the Academy and students participating in the program live in IMSA residence halls. The primary goals of SEAMS are to:
- Provide enriching academic experiences that create academic growth and stimulate interest in math and science.
- Create an experience that simulates, to some extent, the experience of an enrolled IMSA student.
Applications for the Summer of 2008 are now available. PROMISE-SEAMS classes will be held Monday-Friday from June 15-27, 2008 at IMSA. The application process is competitive for the $50 program and the application deadline is April 25. Parents are responsible for the cost of transportation to and from IMSA, although limited assistance may be available.
The SEAMS application packet (PDF, 16.3 MB) is available for downloading and printing.
For more information about the PROMISE-SEAMS program, or to request a print copy of the PROMISE-SEAMS application, please send email to diversity@imsa.edu.