Weeklong day programs for rising 5th and 6th graders
Early Accelerator programs offer younger students exciting and innovative ways to explore STEM concepts. Through interactive and hands-on activities, students will embark on a series of STEM adventures. These non-residential, day programs are held on our Durham and Morganton campuses.
We are looking for participants who have a passion for the subject area, good behavior/conduct, and a desire to learn new things.
- The cost for Early Accelerator is $350
- Students must bring lunch, but all other materials are provided
- Space in each course is limited, so participants are encouraged to apply early
- The application must be completed by a custodial parent or guardian
- Applications are received until all spots are filled
December 2025 Information Session
Early Accelerator FAQ
NCSSM offers a variety of STEM-focused Summer Programs for rising 5th and 6th graders. The program is open to kids who reside anywhere, but they need to be transported daily to the NCSSM campus where their Early Accelerator cohort is based.
Cost for Early Accelerator is $350. Students must bring lunch. All other materials and supplies for the program will be provided.
Any student in the United States who has been accepted to the Summer Accelerator program may apply for financial aid by completing a FACTS Aid Assessment.
To apply for aid, please fill out the same application and indicate that you are applying for aid. Once accepted to Early Accelerator or Summer Accelerator, we will provide the link and instructions on how to complete the FACTS Assessment. All students seeking financial aid must have a completed FACTS assessment in order to be considered for aid.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to summer@ncssm.edu.
We are seeking funding to expand our financial aid to families in need and will announce any expansion of financial aid through email to those subscribed to our mailing list. You can subscribe here.
Cancellations prior to April 1 will receive a full-tuition refund. Cancellations made on or after April 1 are not eligible for a refund.
In the case that the minimum requirements for running the program are not met, we reserve the right to cancel a course and provide registered participants a full refund, including the deposit.
Early Accelerator Key Contacts
Alicia Stokley
Director of Summer Programs and Extended Partnerships
Blake Reed
Assistant Director of Summer Programs
Gina Barrier
Director of Summer Programs and Extended Partnerships
Taylor Flach ’18
Assistant Director of Summer Programs
Susan Gantt
Associate Manager of Summer Programs
Josh Blackburn
Assistant Director for Summer and Extended Programs