Student Summer Scholarships Take Center Stage

Logging Off for The Summer

Summer is in full swing for young Alaskans across the state, students put away pencils, left the books behind and logged off of online learning, at least for a few months. 

Students like 7-year-old Kitalia in Juneau experienced learning behind a computer screen due to COVID-19. Online classes lack physical and in-person interactions. “This year with COVID and school being mostly from home, it's been challenging socially — especially for children,” said Kitalia’s mother.

Getting Outside To Learn & Play

Kitalia and her mother Laura were looking for different ways to get out and play, learn and to “just be a kid,” when the two went on the hunt for a summer camp. They found Juneau Dance Theatre.

Laura said, “We picked this camp because there were a variety of classes she could attend throughout the day, which means more activities and more learning experiences.” Juneau Dance Theatre’s mission in part is, “to develop artistic creativity and skills in both visual and performing arts through its annual Fine Arts Camp.”

A favorite camp activity for Kitalia was Art of Movement. Campers went outside and explored movement. Other personal favorites were playing games and coloring with crayons while outside with fellow campers. “She definitely gained the socialization she's been craving!” said Kitalia’s mother. "She also learned how to be a great artist!”

A Decade of Helping Young Alaskans

For more than a decade, Alaska Housing has helped more than 1,000 young Alaskans attend a summer camp, take part in an activity, or participate in a sport of their choosing through the Youth Summer Camp and Activities Scholarship that is offered for families receiving support from Public Housing.

“As a parent, I loved how welcoming all the staff were every morning at drop off and every afternoon at pick up,” Laura noted. “The camp was very well organized!”  With new skills learned, artwork to showcase and friends made thanks to her summer camp, focusing on fun took center stage. Laura added, “I also wanted to say thank you for this opportunity. Without the scholarship, she wouldn't have been able to attend!”

Scholarships are available for families participating in eligible Alaska Housing programs. Learn more here.

Photo courtesy Juneau Dance Theatre