PROCTORVILLE – This summer, Ohio University Proctorville Center will have its first STEAM Leadership Acadamy.

STEAM classes mixes an art/design component in with science, technology, engineering and math courses as the art and design program element is seen as a way to involve the creative process into the problem solving of traditional STEM ideology.

The academy is for grades 7-12 and students can complete college courses in just four weeks while interacting with industry professionals.

The idea is for students to jump start their academic careers.

“We feel that the Academy is a unique learning experience for area youth that will allow them to earn college credit while honing their leadership skills — both of which are in great demand in today’s workforce,” director of the Proctorville Center Stephanie Burcham said.

There will be an open house from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21 at 111 Private Drive 516 for students and parents interested in learning more about the STEAM Leadership Academy. Application materials, including high school transcripts, must be submitted by April 1.

Successful completion of the college courses during the program earns participants transferable college-level credit. It may also satisfy high school graduation requirements.

For more information about the open house, contact Burcham at 740-886-7655.