LTS Students Participate in GIV

Summer 2024 –

The Governor’s Institutes of Vermont (GIV) offers high school students immersive, week-long summer programs in fields like arts, engineering, environmental science, technology, and global issues. With expert guidance, students dive deeply into subjects they’re passionate about through hands-on projects and collaborative learning. GIV not only enhances academic knowledge but also fosters confidence, critical thinking, and a clearer sense of future possibilities. For Vermont students seeking to explore their interests beyond the classroom, GIV provides an inspiring and transformative experience. Long Trail actively promotes and encourages student participation in GIV. With support from sending high schools that help subsidize the program, we are proud each summer to have a dedicated group of students represent Long Trail.  

In the summer of 2024, we proudly sent one of our largest cohorts yet, with eight students attending four of the institutes: Environmental Science, Health & Medicine, Engineering, and Technology & Design. This strong representation highlights the enthusiasm of Long Trail students to expand their knowledge in specialized fields and explore potential career paths through intensive, hands-on learning experiences.

Reflecting on his experience, James Dorr, Class of 2026, shared, “Living on a college campus was a very eye-opening experience. Going to a place where I knew very few people helped me to expand my interpersonal skills and make new connections.” For James, the opportunity to meet new people, share stories, and gain different perspectives was enriching and exciting.

Jayda Page, Class of 2025, echoed the program’s impact, saying, “It was really cool, and the people there were so nice. Definitely do it. It’s a really good experience. I am really glad I did it.” In addition to learning life-saving skills like CPR, Jayda emphasized how GIV helped clarify her goals, adding, “It’ll definitely help with your decision about what you wanna do in the future.” 

Experiences like these leave Long Trail students empowered and motivated, returning with fresh perspectives, clarified goals, and a deeper understanding of their interests. Through their time at GIV, they gain skills, friendships, and insights that extend far beyond the classroom, enriching our school community and helping to shape their futures.

We are thrilled with the experiences of this group and look forward to sending another cohort in the summer of 2025. Interested students in grades 9-12 should be prepared to apply in late winter or early spring. Financial concerns should not deter participation, as tuition is offered on a sliding scale, with financial aid available to ensure that all students have the opportunity to benefit from this transformative experience.