No. Student participants are supervised by resident teachers. As a teacher participant, you are not responsible for any student while at the Academy. While teachers may go to some of the same activities as the students, teachers have their own schedule and program experience separate from the students.
Who oversees the teacher participants?
A resident Tteacher will be assigned to the group of teacher participants. This RT will be your point of contact while at the program.
Do I need to bring any money?
The program will provide all transportation, lodging, activity admissions and meals during the program. You may bring spending money for things such as snacks or souvenirs.
Can I bring my own laptop?
The Academy can provide you with a laptop to use for the two-week program if needed. You are welcome to bring your personal laptop. The Appalachian STEM Academy is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.
Do I need a physical copy of my birth certificate?
Yes. You will need a physical copy of either your birth certificate or passport. We will tour/visit certain places that require either of these documents.
Are cell phones and other electronic devices allowed?
Cell phones are allowed and will be used to communicate with the group through WhatsApp.
Will I be able to do laundry?
Yes. There are laundry facilities on site. The Academy will provide laundry detergent/softener/dryer sheets. Times will be set aside for everyone to do laundry should they need to.
What is the schedule during the program?
Please see this sample calendar that illustrates the daily schedule for participants. Please note this is only an example of the schedule and specific activities are still being determined and subject to change.
Is it ok for me to leave for part of a day or a couple of days for other events or family activities?
On a few days throughout the program, the activity is optional for teachers. In these cases, you are free to make your own plans. However, throughout the rest of the program, part-time participation is not an option.
Is it ok for family members to visit me during the program?
Due to safety and security concerns, outside visitors, including family members, are not permitted to visit during the program. Family and friends will be invited to attend the final presentations on the last day of the program only.
Will I be able to attend religious services?
Prior to the program, please email an ORAU staff member to request accommodations. Reasonable efforts will be made to allow attendance to religious services.
If I am teaching summer school or involved in other programs, will I have time to do both?
While at the Academy, you can do other work during your free time. However, the Appalachian STEM Academy has a very full schedule, and you will have limited time for other classes/programs.
Where will we be staying, and will I have a roommate?
We will be lodging in Oak Ridge, TN at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. The program will cover the cost of double-occupancy lodging accommodations for all ASA participants. This means that you may be sharing a room with another participant. We try to assign rooms to people with compatible interests.
If you prefer to have a private room, you may do so; however, you will be responsible for the additional cost of the second half of the room, which is approximately $750. You do not need to make a separate payment. This amount will be deducted from your stipend should you choose to have a private room.
Do I need to purchase a plane ticket to Oak Ridge?
No! Program staff will purchase your airline tickets on your behalf based on the information that you provide via the travel survey linked in Zintellect.
What if I have a dietary restriction or food allergy?
The Academy will accommodate your dietary restrictions and food allergies. Please make sure that you describe your needs during the onboarding process and notify staff if there are any changes after completing onboarding.
Can I pick my research topic? If not, how are topics assigned?
No, you do not get to pick your topic. Participants will list preferences for research topics on the Teacher Information survey during onboarding. Program staff will make every effort to match you to a research topic that meets your interests.
Will I have access to gym equipment or be able to exercise?
There is a hotel gym that you will have access to.
