Your Extraordinary Summer Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to common questions about our summer program for current 1st – 4th grade students (those entering grades 2 - 5 in the fall). Families of admitted students receive complete details via email prior to the start of a session. Still have a question? Email info@mity.org or call us at (651) 243-2221.
What Are The Dates And Hours Of The Summer Elementary Program?
View Overview Page
Is Before- And Aftercare Available?
Yes! Families must pre-register for extended care. Go to the Your Extraordinary Summer Overview Page for more information.
Where is the program located?
The summer 2024 sessions will be held at North Metro Flex Academy in North St. Paul.
What Do Students Do For Lunch?
Lunch is not provided. Students should bring their own lunch and two nut-free snacks for each day. Lunch is not available for purchase on-site.
Does My Child Have To Be Identified As Gifted And Talented Or As An Advanced Learner By Their School District To Attend?
No. MITY welcomes all eager learners in its programs.
Will Exceptions Be Made To The Grade Level (Age) Requirements?
No. The elementary school program is only for students who will be entering grades 2 – 5 in the fall. We understand that there are many advanced kindergarten students who would like to attend MITY; however, they will need to wait until the fall to apply for MITY’s Your Extraordinary Saturday program.
Are Students Grouped By Age?
Yes. Students are put into two groups: 1st and 2nd graders are together and 3rd and 4th graders are together.
How Many Students Are In Each Class?
Class sizes range from 8 - 16 students.
Do You Offer Any Discounts?
Yes! MITY offers reduced rates for siblings, new families, and for students who attend both summer sessions. Go to the YES Application Page for more information.
Is Transportation Available?
No. MITY is unable to provide transportation. Families who are interested in carpooling are given a list of other interested families so that they can arrange ridesharing.
Do Students Receive A Grade Or Performance Evaluation?
No. The purpose of MITY’s elementary-aged classes is to provide talented students with the opportunity to pursue an area of interest or try new things in a safe and supportive environment. Students are more likely to take risks and learn from mistakes if they are free to be creative and work at their own pace.
What Do Parents And Guardians Do While Students Are In Class?
Unlike MITY’s Saturday morning program, there are no parent speakers or classroom visits during the Your Extraordinary Summer sessions. Caregivers are asked to drop-off their student(s) between 8:45 - 9:00 AM (unless the student is registered for before care) and pick-up promptly at 4:00 PM (unless the student is registered for after care).
Should All Of The Application Components Be Sent Together?
The report card does not need to be sent with the application; however, we will not review an application until we have received both the report card and payment (or a request for financial aid). Students who participated in a MITY program during the 2023-2024 school year do not need to resubmit a report card.
What Is MITY's Refund Policy?
All applications must include a deposit of $150 or a completed financial aid application. $100 of the deposit is non-refundable.
- After April 1, the full deposit is non-refundable.
- The balance is due by May 1. After May 15, there is no refund of tuition.
- If MITY cancels a course before it begins, students will be placed into their second-choice class.
- Refunds are not provided once a session begins.
- In the unlikely event that MITY terminates a course during the session, MITY will consider the circumstances and may, at its sole discretion, issue a partial refund or credit.
How Many Students Attend Each Session?
Roughly 130 - 140 students attend each session.
What If A Child Gets Sick Or Injured During The Program?
The MITY staff strive to maintain a safe environment for all participants. If a student becomes ill or injured, parents will be contacted immediately. In an emergency, students may be transported by ambulance to the nearest hospital.
Who Teaches And Supervises YES Classes?
MITY hires master teachers for each course. Many of them have been teaching in our programs for several years and know how to work with gifted students at this age. MITY also employs college and high school students to assist in classrooms and provide supervision during breaks.
Will Classes Be Held On Juneteenth?
Yes! In order to provide a full 10 days of programming and to maintain the momentum generated during the first two days of Session A, MITY will hold classes as usual on June 19. We will commemorate our nation's second independence day, the ending of slavery, with a variety of special events featuring education, discussion, special guests, and celebration.
Do Staff Undergo Background Checks?
Yes. MITY conducts background checks on all staff members prior to contact with children.