Original education graphic: summer 2027 STEM Academy in Oak Ridge, with applications due December 4, 2026, and travel, lodging, meals and supplies included.

Pontotoc students can apply for funded STEM academy by Dec. 4

October 29, 2026 Jon Myers

Pontotoc students and STEM teachers have until Dec. 4, 2026, to apply for the Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge, a funded residential program scheduled for summer 2027. Pontotoc High School shared the opportunity in an Oct. 28 notice, and Pontotoc County is included in the Appalachian Regional Commission’s eligible region.

ARC says the program covers roundtrip travel to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, lodging, meals, supplies and extracurricular activities. Participants should bring their own money for incidental expenses or souvenirs. The program is subject to available funding.

Middle-school students attend one of two weeklong sessions, July 10–16 or July 17–23, 2027. High-school students and teachers attend July 10–23. The academy is hosted by Oak Ridge Associated Universities.

The middle-school program is for current sixth- through eighth-graders. The high-school program is for current ninth- through eleventh-graders who will be at least 16 by July 10, 2027. High-school STEM teachers also have a program. Applicants must meet the relevant Appalachian county and other program requirements; eligibility does not guarantee selection.

Students take part in guided group science, math and technology projects. High-school participants work with Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists, while teachers work with science practitioners on STEM curriculum.

The official program overview and 2027 application portal are linked below for families and educators to review the requirements and apply. Related local education coverage includes Pontotoc County schools’ separate Toyota Wellspring grant announcement.

Photo: Pontotoc News original editorial graphic

Sources: Pontotoc High School: Appalachian STEM Academies notice; ARC’s October 8 announcement for summer 2027 applications; STEM Academy dates, deadline, costs and application link; Apply for the 2027 Appalachian STEM Academy; ARC counties list includes Pontotoc County, Mississippi; Related local education coverage: county schools’ Toyota Wellspring grant