The Tennessee Governor’s Schools, which take place across the University of Tennessee Martin campus, are available to rising 11th- and 12th-grade students at private and public institutions across the state. Programs are academically rigorous, and students must be nominated to attend by faculty members who deem them talented, highly motivated, and mature.
In January, applications, faculty recommendations, and academic transcripts were due for the upcoming 2021 summer semester. Selection for the Governor’s School for the Arts also required an audition and/or portfolio review.
This year, 15 GPS students submitted applications to 10 different Governor’s School programs. Nine were accepted, with numerous students receiving acceptance to two programs. Six students were offered alternate status and are awaiting final decisions.
The following students will represent GPS this summer in the following programs:**
Mary Catherine Clelland ’22* | Governor's School of Humanities
Caroline Farris ’22 | Governor's School of the Arts (Visual Art)
Ellie Fivas ’22* | Governor's School of Humanities
Sarah Kalla ’22 | Governor's School of the Arts (Vocal Performance)
Hannah Grace Kornberg ’23 | Governor's School for International Studies
Abbey Katelyn Pettus ’22 | Governor's School for Scientific Exploration and Tennessee Heritage
Anisha Phade ’23 | Governor's School for Business, Innovation, and Technology
Lauren Thacker ’22* | Governor's School for Computational Physics
*signifies acceptance to two programs
**One accepted GPS student declined her admission
In addition to her acceptance to the Governor’s School of the Arts, Sarah Kalla received a scholarship in recognition of her talents that will cover half of the program costs, such as room, board, and tuition.
Each of this summer’s programs runs for three to four weeks, and plans are in place to hold sessions in person. Should circumstances require it, they are prepared to take learning virtually.
While on campus this summer, students can attend concerts, plays, movies, and additional special events planned for nights and weekends, and they may participate in various campus activities, as well.
Each student who attends the Tennessee Governor’s Schools receives a certificate of merit signed by the governor, and multiple programs offer college credit upon completion.
The Tennessee Governor's Schools provide 11 challenging and high-intensity programs for rising 11th and 12th grade students nominated by high school faculty. Each school offers a unique learning environment for students interested in the arts, humanities, agriculture science, STEM programs, advanced mathematics, physics, leadership, international studies, Tennessee history, or potential teaching careers. Students interested in participating in a Governor's School should obtain the application from a high school administrator, school counselor, or other faculty member.