Two Jessamine County students were among 60 others to be chosen to attend The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics at Morehead State University.

Anna Hylen, daughter of Michael George Hylen and Carolyn Christine Hylen from West Jessamine High School and Kaitlyn Palumbo, daughter of Jennifer and Frank Palumbo from East Jessamine High School, will have the opportunity to join The Craft Academy class of 2019.

“These students represent some of the Commonwealth’s best and brightest,” said Dr. Carol Christian, director of the Craft Academy. “The application and selection  process was very competitive again this year, and we look forward to welcoming these young scholars to the Morehead State University campus in the fall.”

A college-level curriculum will allow students to complete up to two years of university coursework all while also gaining their high school diploma.

In addition, The Craft Academy will offer project-based STEM+X  courses that will enrich educational experiences and develop competencies in entrepreneurship and innovation, design and creativity along with civic and regional engagement, according to a press release from Morehead University.

Participants will reside on the campus that was designed for high school aged students. The facility will provide meeting and social space, which will be staffed 24/7, as well as access to counselors and advisors.

Students were selected based on ACT scores, academic grades from their first two years of high school, interest in advanced STEM careers, responses to application essay questions, an interview by the academy selection committee and recommendations from teachers and others who can attest to the student’s need and preparedness for the program.

At the end of the two years, students will have earned a minimum of 60 college credit hours, finished high school and be given the option to either further their education at MSU or transfer to any other college or university.

Additional information on the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science and Mathematics is available by calling Dr. Christian at 606-783-9025.