Study in fun

About 600 students turned out for the Black and Gold Academy, held at Boyle County High School, which started Monday and ends Friday.

The camp gives students a chance to try things they ordinarily wouldn’t get to, said Stephanie Wade, technology integration specialist. There are 60 classes offered, including virtual reality, drone diversions, coding, robotics, make-up, super spa, and “just dance.” There was also a class based on “breakout rooms,” a popular trend where teams attempt to solve clues and escape locked rooms; and a “flea market flip” class.

“It’s truly what the students want,” said Susan Taylor, district technology director.

Students get to choose the classes they want to take. Taylor said they get together in March to begin brainstorming. Besides taking two academic or classroom-based classes, students also rotate through some type of physical activity each day, including miniature golf, human foosball and kickball.

Wade said the administrators serve, too.

“I think it helps strengthen their bond with the students,” she said.

The week will end Friday night with a showcase for parents.

“It’s been a really good week,” Wade said.