Penn State Altoona is expanding its community outreach through a new visual art studies summer academy and the Sense-ational Endeavors camp, both designed to bridge the gap between professional academic resources and local K-12 students. These initiatives provide high schoolers and children with disabilities access to university-grade digital media labs, ceramics studios, and sensory integration tools.
University Studios as High School Pipelines
The visual art studies summer academy brings rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors into the same professional studios used by Penn State Altoona majors. According to the college’s website, students engage in a hybrid of traditional and digital making, including ceramics, drawing, and graphic design.
Adjunct instructor Michelle Ettrick stated the program allows students to see the scope of the visual art studies department. This “hands-on” approach is intended to influence the academic trajectory of participants. Recent graduates, including Jordan Alwine (2023) and Grace Brown, serve as assistants to help students brainstorm and experiment with different mediums.
Did you know? Students in the program aren’t just sketching; they use professional-grade equipment in the Pine Building’s studio to create everything from shark-themed mugs to abstract vases.
Sensory Integration and Inclusive Education
Parallel to the art academy, Penn State Altoona and Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 (IU8) operate the Sense-ational Endeavors summer camp. The program serves two tiers: children ages 4-8 in the morning and ages 9-15 in the afternoon.
The camp focuses on “sensory integration,” using music, art, and physical movement to help children with disabilities explore their environment. Kasey Schultz, an IU8 teacher employed through Penn State, noted that the camp provides a safe environment for children to overcome specific challenges. Activities include drumming and dancing to facilitate social skill development.
Comparing the Two Programs
| Feature | Visual Art Academy | Sense-ational Endeavors |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | High Schoolers (Sophomore-Senior) | Children ages 4-15 |
| Primary Goal | Career/Academic exploration | Sensory and social development |
| Key Tools | Digital labs, ceramics, printmaking | Music, drums, sensory activities |
The Shift Toward Experiential Learning
By allowing students from Penn Cambria, Altoona Area, and Bishop Guilfoyle Academy to use university facilities, the college lowers the barrier to entry for specialized arts education.
For students like Ryann Packard of Altoona Area, the program is a way to find “meaningful ways of expressing herself.” This move toward tactile, project-based learning—such as creating ceramics without preliminary drawings, as Jade Dupcavitch did—contrasts with traditional classroom settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Penn State Altoona art academy?
The program is designed for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors interested in visual arts.
What is the focus of the Sense-ational Endeavors camp?
It focuses on sensory activities, music, and art to help children with disabilities develop social skills and explore through their six senses.
Are these programs available every year?
While specific dates vary, instructor Michelle Ettrick stated her hope that the program will be offered in future years.
What do you think about university-led summer camps for local students? Have you seen similar programs in your area? Let us know in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for more local education updates.
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