Journey through Summer 2025!
Week 1 Recap!!!
Week 1 of our MGCAE Summer Programs was filled with curiosity, collaboration, and new beginnings! From rising 9th graders starting their high school transition course, to upperclassmen diving into academic enrichment and postsecondary planning, every day brought energy and growth.
Students participated in hands-on workshops, group discussions, and creative activities designed to boost confidence, sharpen skills, and strengthen their vision for the future. Our classrooms buzzed with goal-setting, college and career exploration, and personal development work that laid the foundation for a strong year ahead.
Whether they were designing vision boards, reflecting on past school years, or preparing for leadership in high school and beyond, students showed up ready to learn, lead, and level up.
Spotlight: High School Transition Course – Macon Session
This summer, our rising 9th graders kicked off their high school journey with confidence and clarity through our High School Transition Course in Macon!
Over the course of the week, students explored what it means to be high school ready—learning how to manage their schedules, build strong study habits, understand GPA and graduation requirements, and set realistic goals for the future. They even got hands-on with career exploration and began mapping their paths to college, technical school, or the workforce.
Through engaging discussions, interactive workshops, and team-building activities, students walked away feeling more prepared, more confident, and more excited about what’s ahead.
"High school doesn’t feel so scary anymore. Now I have a plan!" – ~Rising 9th grade participant
We’re proud of how these future scholars showed up, asked great questions, and supported each other—and we can’t wait to see how they grow this year!
Week 3 Recap – Creativity, Collaboration & Confidence
Week 3 brought the heat—and our students brought the hustle! From powerful debate prep to personal writing projects, students leaned into their voices and practiced how to express themselves with clarity and courage. Group sessions challenged them to think critically about current events, AI, and their role in shaping the future.
Our rising 9th–12th graders reflected on their strengths, explored pathways beyond high school, and continued to build relationships across campuses.
Week 4 Recap – AI, College Prep, Cochran & Community
Week 4 brought big energy, deep thinking, and powerful student experiences—both in person and online!
Some of our students spent the week participating in the residential portion of our summer program at the Cochran campus of Middle Georgia State University, where they explored college life firsthand. From dorm living to dining halls and academic workshops, it was an immersive opportunity to experience what it really feels like to be a college student.
At the same time, students in the Cochran Alternative virtual track were actively engaging in online learning, completing writing workshops, college and career readiness projects, and creative final presentations—proving that growth can happen in any space, as long as you're committed.
Meanwhile, our Artificial Intelligence Masterclass students continued tackling big questions:
- How is AI shaping the world we live in?
- What are the ethical concerns around bias, surveillance, and fairness?
- How can I use AI tools to support my future?
And to wrap the week with fun and community spirit, all students were invited to attend a Macon Bacon baseball game—a perfect way to celebrate all the hard work, connect with peers, and enjoy some classic summer fun! ⚾🥓
🔜 Welcome to Week 5 – Time to Showcase & Shine!
We’ve officially entered Week 5—nearing the final stretch of our summer journey! This week is all about reflection, celebration, and showcasing everything students have learned and created. Final presentations, project submissions, and postsecondary plans will take center stage as our scholars wrap up with confidence.
As our MGCAE Summer Programs wrapped up during Week 5, students across all tracks took center stage—presenting their final projects, sharing reflections, and celebrating just how far they've come.
Those participating in the residential program at Middle Georgia State University in Cochran completed their final college and career planning workshops, explored leadership development, and closed out with confidence and community. Meanwhile, students in the Cochran Alternative virtual track submitted creative projects and vision boards, participated in one-on-one advising, and proved that focus and determination can thrive in any setting.
Our Artificial Intelligence Masterclass students delivered final presentations that showcased original ideas—from AI tools designed to help students with mental health, to reflections on the ethical questions AI raises in society. They not only demonstrated what they learned, but also how they’re thinking critically about the future they’re preparing to lead.
💬 One student shared:
“This program helped me realize I don’t have to have it all figured out—but I do need to start planning now.”
As we close out the summer, we are incredibly proud of every student who showed up, spoke up, and stepped forward.
The future is bright—and they’re ready for it.