The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at WKU has selected 98 Kentucky sophomores for the Class of 2027, marking The Gatton Academy’s 20th incoming class.
“The members of The Gatton Academy Class of 2027 are outstanding students from across the state. They have demonstrated interest in STEM careers and are motivated to pursue the most advanced academic opportunities available in Kentucky,” said the Director of The Gatton Academy, Dr. Lynette Breedlove. “We are so excited to launch them toward their infinite possibilities.”
Among the applicants accepted into the prestigious academy is Grayson County High School student Elizabeth Barnett, of Clarkson. She is the daughter of Pat and Bethany Barnett.
Applicants were evaluated based on ACT/SAT scores, high school grades, awards and accomplishments, extracurricular activities, responses to essay and short answer questions, and recommendation forms. In addition to these criteria, candidates were invited to interview with WKU faculty members, community leaders from across the commonwealth, and Gatton Academy alumni.
The mission of The Gatton Academy is to provide a residential program on the campus of Western Kentucky University for bright, highly motivated Kentucky high school students who have demonstrated interests in pursuing advanced careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Students enhance their creativity, curiosity, reasoning ability, and self-discipline through the companionship of peers, university courses, faculty-led research, and study abroad, preparing them for leadership roles in the commonwealth of Kentucky. Moreover, The Gatton Academy assists in preparing Kentucky to compete in a knowledge-based economy by increasing the number of scientists and engineers with ties to the state.
“What a pleasure it is to welcome a new class of students to The Gatton Academy. These exceptional young scientists and mathematicians will learn in an environment that offers advanced educational opportunities and develop as future leaders for the commonwealth,” stated Dr. Julia Roberts, Executive Director of The Gatton Academy and Mahurin Professor of Gifted Education.
Students will complete their junior and senior years of high school living in Florence Schneider Hall. At the end of their two-year course of study, students will graduate from high school with a minimum of 60 college credit hours and an Associate Degree of Interdisciplinary Studies from Western Kentucky University.
The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first state-supported, two-year residential program for high school students with interests in advanced science and math careers and is one of only 15 such programs in the nation. The Gatton Academy was the recipient of the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
