The Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program (ANSEP) recently partnered with the North Slope Borough School District (NSBSD) and Wainwright, Alaska-based Qargi Academy to host a Middle School Academy. This was the first time ANSEP had the opportunity to invite Qargi Academy students to take part, and three Qargi students joined 27 from NSBSD for the experience. Students traveled to Anchorage for a week packed with hands-on STEM projects, team building and activities that spark early excitement about college and future careers.
“This new strategic partnership with Qargi Academy makes new adventures possible for rural students and highlights ANSEP’s commitment to expanding access to educational opportunities statewide,” said ANSEP Executive Director Dr. Matt Calhoun. “ANSEP is working hard to close opportunity gaps across Alaska, and for some of these students Middle School Academy is their first visit to Anchorage alone. Being here opens the door to new ideas and helps them see what is possible.”
Middle School Academy strengthens students’ knowledge in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through activities that spark curiosity and build confidence. During the week, students build computers, learn coding with Scratch, explore electronic circuits through online simulators and construct K’Nex towers to test on an earthquake simulator. These projects give students an introduction to real STEM concepts while encouraging creative problem solving. After completion of Middle School Academy, students go home with their own laptop they will use to complete Algebra 1 before entering high school.
Connection and community are also central to the ANSEP experience. Students collaborate with peers from other schools and communities, forming friendships and learning how to succeed as part of a team. While in Anchorage, they stay in University of Alaska Anchorage dorms and take part in activities such as a pool night and attend university events. These shared experiences help students see college as an accessible and welcoming environment.
Students who attended the most recent Middle School Academy represent six Far North communities, including:
Anaktuvuk Pass
- Jace Kakinya-Williams
- Melanie Gordon
Kaktovik
- Edward Rexford
- Maria Solomon
- Olivia Going
- Priscilla Tikluk
- Suakpak Warrior
Nuiqsut
- Ariel Ipalook
- Brandi Sovalik
- Miranda Sovalik
Point Lay
- Donna Ahkvaluk
- Leo Ferrerira
- Arielle Lampe
- Ann Neakok
- Nora Tukrook
- Jayla Upicksoun
Utqiaġvik
- Mason Akpik (Qargi student)
- Joel Akpik, Jr. (Qargi student)
- Aeris Johnston
- Bella Johnston
- Elizabeth (Tuku) Kalayauk
- Jessa Kaleak
- Adrienne Rexford
- Reina Santos
- Jedediah Tivao
- Matalina Tivao
- Saggana Vadiveloo
Wainwright
- Madison Carson (Qargi student)
- Cadie Ekak
- Chelsey Patkotak
ANSEP opportunities like Middle School Academy give students from small rural Alaska communities a chance to explore new ideas and challenge themselves in ways they may not experience at home. With a mix of hands-on learning and a supportive environment, students discover their strengths and start to see that big goals are within reach. The confidence they gain early on builds a strong foundation for future innovation, discovery and long-term academic success.
ANSEP opportunities are available to Alaskans of all backgrounds, and all eligible Alaska students are encouraged to apply. Elementary, middle, high school and university students across Alaska interested in joining ANSEP can explore opportunities and submit applications at www.ANSEP.net.
