UNR hosts summer math/tech camp for middle schoolers

Nevada students entering the seventh and eighth grades in the 2023 fall semester have the opportunity to participate in a math and technology residential camp July 23-28 on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. Registration is open until April 10.

This residential camp for middle schoolers aims to enhance mathematics skills and build awareness of mathematics-based careers. Program staff includes a mix of veteran teachers and upper-division preservice or beginning teachers.

The Nevada Math & Technology Camp, based in the College of Education & Human Development, is intended to increase students' knowledge, skills and confidence in mathematics and technology to enhance mathematical and technological competence in their personal, academic and occupational lives. Role models and professionals from the math and technology fields also participate as guest speakers during the sessions.

Instructors base their lessons on the Nevada Math Standards established for the grade level the students will enter in the fall. They employ research-based teaching methods endorsed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, including a constructivist orientation to learning. Math topics covered in the camp include problem-solving, geometry, spatial skills, data analysis and probability and algebra.

Campers stay in the residential halls.

"The residential nature of the camp allows rural students to be exposed to a large college campus who might not otherwise have an opportunity at this age due to how geographically disperse our state is," Assistant Camp Director Heather Crawford-Ferre said.

The camp is led by University Professor of Education Lynda Wiest and Crawford-Ferre, Nevada Department of Education’s education programs professional. Wiest has been the camp director since its inception in 1998, and Crawford-Ferre has been with the camp since 2007.

The cost is $600, which includes tuition, housing, meals and snacks, group recreation, camp T-shirt, math souvenir and other associated costs. Scholarships are available to participants with demonstrated financial need.

Parents can register their students online or email unrmathcamp@gmail.com for information.