STEM Summer Camp

View Larger Image

STEM Summer Camp

This summer, during the last two weeks in June, PALCS held the 2017 STEM Camp at the Advanced Ideas Center (AIC) in West Chester, PA. There were two sessions of the program that each ran for one week from 8 am – 12 pm each day. Students in grades 6-8 were invited to participate in the camp, which took place from June 19th to June 30th.

Mr. Dan Slusser, middle school teacher, was head of the summer program, which was designed to expose students of all ability levels to STEM-related concepts and activities in a collaborative, teacher-guided environment. A range of activities were planned for those who were just beginning to explore the field of STEM, all the way up to those who are highly skilled and are taking steps to enter into a STEM-related career.

Students had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with some of the most popular STEM devices and tools available on the market. Each special tool was carefully chosen to address the acquisition of a specific skill set.

The devices and tools featured at this year’s camp included:

Raspberry Pi – a Linux-based mini computer
Astro Pi SenseHat – a Raspberry Pi add-on, a version of which is orbiting our planet right now on the International Space Station
Scratch programming language – to develop and program our devices
Python programming language – to develop and program our devices
Makey Makey – a kit that turns everyday objects into digital objects, allowing anyone to study circuitry and methods of controlling devices
Vex IQ robot – similar to LEGO Mindstorms robots, but with more functionality
Computer Vision – to explore and demonstrate how computers can “see”
3D Printing – to produce practical and fun objects

We would like to thank all of the students who participated, their families, and the hard-working teachers for making this program possible; especially Mr. Slusser for taking the lead in ensuring the success of this camp. There is always something going on in the PALCS community! Currently enrolled students should always make sure to check PALCSchool calendars to see what upcoming events and programs are available!

Video showing highlights of students at the STEM Summer Camp

By PALCS Information Team|2024-07-19T08:36:25-04:00July 31st, 2017|Categories: School News, Latest News|Tags: stem, Science, summer|

About the Author: PALCS Information Team

The Information Team: This team manages the content on this blog, which provides interesting content related to our school and education at large. The information team also help prospective families on their journey to enrollment.

In 2018, 93 students took 162 AP exams with an average score of 3.9. 87% of these students obtained a score of 3 or higher.
According to state law, cyber school students may continue to participate in extra-curricular activities and sports through their local schools.
PALCS has an in-house video production studio so teachers can make dynamic videos for their lessons.
The PALCS University Scholars Program hosts two National Academic Quiz Tournament teams that compete and perform well at the national tournament level. A PALCS student was named to the 2016 Pennsylvania National All-Star Scholastic Tournament team.
PALCS offers the University Scholars Program for gifted and motivated learners. The blended on-site and virtual program offers honors and AP courses to accepted students, though any PALCS student may take up to two AP courses through University Scholars.
In addition to teachers, PALCS families have access to dedicated guidance counselors and dozens of student services support staff. Help is always just a call or click away!
There are a 368 courses available at PALCS. 49 courses are offered to to elementary students, 43 to middle school, and 56 core courses and 101 electives to high school students. For middle and high school students, the University Scholars Program adds an additional 42 courses and the Center for Performing and Fine Arts adds 77.
PALCS supports students from day one with a face-to-face orientation. Families are then guided through an Introduction to Online Learning course as they settle into cyber school.
PALCS uses a variety of materials from many different publishers: both physical and virtual textbooks, novels, workbooks and/or other types of supplemental content such as websites and educational programs.
PALCS Center for Performing and Fine Arts students regularly participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District Orchestra Festival.
All PALCS students receive a laptop computer with a webcam, headset microphone, and a printer/copier/scanner. The computer automatically downloads required programs and updates and is filtered for school use.
PALCS students are initiated into the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society each year in a blended on-site/virtual ceremony.
Our internal IT Help Desk is just a phone call away during business hours for technology assistance. We have trainings and tutorials available on-demand.
PALCS offers a Tier 1 public school diploma that is recognized as equal to a traditional brick-and-mortar school by the PA Department of Education and all post-secondary schools. Graduates have the same opportunities as other high school graduates, if not better, as cyber school students can focus on education and learn important self-motivation skills.
PALCS has an award-winning Robotics team, placing in both the First Lego League and the First Tech Challenge.
PALCS faculty and staff participate and encourage students to get involved in various volunteer and community service projects throughout the year. The school participates in regular clothing drives, food drives, and fundraisers.
While equipment is provided, PALCS families can access school from any device with an Internet connection.
PALCS graduates have attended schools ranging from small private colleges such as Grove City, Washington and Jefferson, Allegheny, Messiah and LaSalle; major state universities like Penn State, Pitt, Temple and Drexel; and Ivy League schools like Princeton, Harvard and Yale.
Parents can get involved by joining the monthly Parent Advisory Board. The board meets with the principal monthly to provide feedback and school improvement suggestions.
The PALCS Mascot is the Eagle and the school colors are blue and yellow.
PALCS students can start exposure to a foreign language as young as Kindergarten!
Students in our art classes receive an art kit with a variety of materials such as paint and clay. Painted or drawn pictures can be scanned into the computer via the provided printer/copier/scanner. Students can use their provided webcam to take a picture of sculptures and models.
Students have participated in the Hour of Code and have developed apps for Google Chrome and various code snippets. For creative gamers, PALCS hosts its own server for students to participate in Minecraft Club.
Students who are struggling academically receive help from a PALCS Academic Advisor, who will assist students with organization and scheduling, will facilitate communication and will provide additional support.
Students do complete physical education in cyber school. Classes teach students the importance of incorporating a regular fitness routine into their daily lives and include many instructional videos.
PALCS has a yearly commencement in Lancaster for all graduates and families who wish to attend.
Students can reach out to their teachers at any time through many outlets: phone, email, instant message, or chat.
PALCS provides computer programs and websites to complete virtual labs for science courses.
Students get personalized feedback on assignments.
After orientation, the only required travel for students is to complete state-mandated PSSA or Keystone testing, depending on grade level. PALCS has numerous testing facilities throughout the state, making it as convenient as possible for students to attend. PALCS teachers proctor the test so students can meet teachers and other students in their area.
Students can read and contribute to PA Leadership’s award-winning online student newspaper, “The Talon”, which is edited by students in our Journalism course. PALCS Student Government also produces a newsletter, “The Observer”.
PALCS opened its digital doors on September 13, 2004. Over 2000 young adults have graduated from PALCS since the school opened.
PALCS offers Homework Help in the evenings. Students can receive live help from a PALCS teacher in the virtual classroom.
Students receive classroom materials on a year-to-year basis, but keep their school computer as long as they are enrolled in the school.
The PALCS Network is an online social community and resource for PALCS families to connect with other parents and students. We have optional activities and field trips around the state to keep students engaged and active!
PALCS students can go on many educational, science-related field trips. We’ve gone to Physics Days at Hersheypark and Kennywood, SciTech Days at the Carnegie Science Center, the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Zoos and more!
The guidance department at PALCS offers access to Career Cruising, a website that helps students explore career possibilities.
Students enrolled in PALCS participate in their communities and pursue fantastic interests. We have published novelists, junior firefighters, app developers, notable athletes, and performers of both stage and screen.
PALCS focuses on weekly flexibility. Students can generally work one-to-two weeks ahead in their courses.
Talented PALCS students have performed on many stages and have been heard on the radio across the state. Students have even performed at prestigious Carnegie Hall and on Broadway in New York City.
The PALCS University Scholars Program has a Mock Trial team that has consistently performed well at both county and district levels.
Students have the opportunity to travel internationally, often for elective credit. Previous travel opportunities have included Costa Rica, Canada, China and Panama.
Over 150 highly qualified teachers work at PALCS. Teachers work from one of our offices, in either West Chester or Pittsburgh.
After high school, 79% of the PALCS Class of 2018 chose to further their education with post-secondary school. 18% entered directly into the work force, and 2% entered the military.
Our students are active in community sports, participate on local school district teams, and some even play at the semi-pro level!
Attendance is tracked by logging in on school days, Monday – Friday.
PALCS students perform better on standardized testing. In 2018, our students received an average SAT score of 1166 and an average ACT score of 26.1. State averages: 1073 for SAT and 23.7 for ACT.
PALCS graduates have gone on to a range of careers, including becoming teachers, medical professionals, engineers, performing artists, athletes, and officers in the military.
PALCS has an active Student Government. Students can run for office and participate in committees that spearhead projects, events and fundraisers. Student Government also builds leadership skills and offers unique retreats and field trips.
Students occasionally choose to mail finished projects to their teachers: we proudly display student artwork in our offices and learning centers!

Click here to see more Fast Facts.

Discover Our Prospective Student & Family Events

Learn More About Our School

Meet our Staff

Discover Our Prospective Student & Family Events

Learn More About Our School

Meet our Staff

STEM Summer Camp

Share This!

About the Author: PALCS Information Team

In 2018, 93 students took 162 AP exams with an average score of 3.9. 87% of these students obtained a score of 3 or higher.

According to state law, cyber school students may continue to participate in extra-curricular activities and sports through their local schools.

PALCS has an in-house video production studio so teachers can make dynamic videos for their lessons.

The PALCS University Scholars Program hosts two National Academic Quiz Tournament teams that compete and perform well at the national tournament level. A PALCS student was named to the 2016 Pennsylvania National All-Star Scholastic Tournament team.

PALCS offers the University Scholars Program for gifted and motivated learners. The blended on-site and virtual program offers honors and AP courses to accepted students, though any PALCS student may take up to two AP courses through University Scholars.

In addition to teachers, PALCS families have access to dedicated guidance counselors and dozens of student services support staff. Help is always just a call or click away!

PALCS supports students from day one with a face-to-face orientation. Families are then guided through an Introduction to Online Learning course as they settle into cyber school.

PALCS uses a variety of materials from many different publishers: both physical and virtual textbooks, novels, workbooks and/or other types of supplemental content such as websites and educational programs.

PALCS Center for Performing and Fine Arts students regularly participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District Orchestra Festival.

All PALCS students receive a laptop computer with a webcam, headset microphone, and a printer/copier/scanner. The computer automatically downloads required programs and updates and is filtered for school use.

PALCS students are initiated into the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society each year in a blended on-site/virtual ceremony.

Our internal IT Help Desk is just a phone call away during business hours for technology assistance. We have trainings and tutorials available on-demand.

PALCS has an award-winning Robotics team, placing in both the First Lego League and the First Tech Challenge.

PALCS faculty and staff participate and encourage students to get involved in various volunteer and community service projects throughout the year. The school participates in regular clothing drives, food drives, and fundraisers.

While equipment is provided, PALCS families can access school from any device with an Internet connection.

PALCS graduates have attended schools ranging from small private colleges such as Grove City, Washington and Jefferson, Allegheny, Messiah and LaSalle; major state universities like Penn State, Pitt, Temple and Drexel; and Ivy League schools like Princeton, Harvard and Yale.

Parents can get involved by joining the monthly Parent Advisory Board. The board meets with the principal monthly to provide feedback and school improvement suggestions.

The PALCS Mascot is the Eagle and the school colors are blue and yellow.

PALCS students can start exposure to a foreign language as young as Kindergarten!

Students in our art classes receive an art kit with a variety of materials such as paint and clay. Painted or drawn pictures can be scanned into the computer via the provided printer/copier/scanner. Students can use their provided webcam to take a picture of sculptures and models.

Students have participated in the Hour of Code and have developed apps for Google Chrome and various code snippets. For creative gamers, PALCS hosts its own server for students to participate in Minecraft Club.

Students who are struggling academically receive help from a PALCS Academic Advisor, who will assist students with organization and scheduling, will facilitate communication and will provide additional support.

Students do complete physical education in cyber school. Classes teach students the importance of incorporating a regular fitness routine into their daily lives and include many instructional videos.

PALCS has a yearly commencement in Lancaster for all graduates and families who wish to attend.

Students can reach out to their teachers at any time through many outlets: phone, email, instant message, or chat.

PALCS provides computer programs and websites to complete virtual labs for science courses.

Students get personalized feedback on assignments.

Students can read and contribute to PA Leadership’s award-winning online student newspaper, “The Talon”, which is edited by students in our Journalism course. PALCS Student Government also produces a newsletter, “The Observer”.

PALCS opened its digital doors on September 13, 2004. Over 2000 young adults have graduated from PALCS since the school opened.

PALCS offers Homework Help in the evenings. Students can receive live help from a PALCS teacher in the virtual classroom.

Students receive classroom materials on a year-to-year basis, but keep their school computer as long as they are enrolled in the school.

The PALCS Network is an online social community and resource for PALCS families to connect with other parents and students. We have optional activities and field trips around the state to keep students engaged and active!

PALCS students can go on many educational, science-related field trips. We’ve gone to Physics Days at Hersheypark and Kennywood, SciTech Days at the Carnegie Science Center, the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Zoos and more!

The guidance department at PALCS offers access to Career Cruising, a website that helps students explore career possibilities.

Students enrolled in PALCS participate in their communities and pursue fantastic interests. We have published novelists, junior firefighters, app developers, notable athletes, and performers of both stage and screen.

PALCS focuses on weekly flexibility. Students can generally work one-to-two weeks ahead in their courses.

Talented PALCS students have performed on many stages and have been heard on the radio across the state. Students have even performed at prestigious Carnegie Hall and on Broadway in New York City.

The PALCS University Scholars Program has a Mock Trial team that has consistently performed well at both county and district levels.

Students have the opportunity to travel internationally, often for elective credit. Previous travel opportunities have included Costa Rica, Canada, China and Panama.

Over 150 highly qualified teachers work at PALCS. Teachers work from one of our offices, in either West Chester or Pittsburgh.

After high school, 79% of the PALCS Class of 2018 chose to further their education with post-secondary school. 18% entered directly into the work force, and 2% entered the military.

Our students are active in community sports, participate on local school district teams, and some even play at the semi-pro level!

Attendance is tracked by logging in on school days, Monday – Friday.

PALCS students perform better on standardized testing. In 2018, our students received an average SAT score of 1166 and an average ACT score of 26.1. State averages: 1073 for SAT and 23.7 for ACT.

PALCS graduates have gone on to a range of careers, including becoming teachers, medical professionals, engineers, performing artists, athletes, and officers in the military.

PALCS has an active Student Government. Students can run for office and participate in committees that spearhead projects, events and fundraisers. Student Government also builds leadership skills and offers unique retreats and field trips.

Students occasionally choose to mail finished projects to their teachers: we proudly display student artwork in our offices and learning centers!

Contact Info

Recent PALCS News