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Why Students Keep Coming Back to Birmingham Summer Institute
Some students have been coming to Birmingham Summer Institute for five or six summers in a row. Here's what keeps them coming back — and what it means for how they learn, grow, and see themselves.

Cody Carlton
4 days ago8 min read


What Alabama Families and Educators Should Know About the ACT in 2026–2027
The ACT is changing nationally, but Alabama's own school-day test hasn't caught up yet. Here's what students, families, and educators need to know about testing dates, benchmarks, college admissions policies, and readiness requirements for 2026–2027.

Cody Carlton
Jul 216 min read


Productive Struggle Matters Even More in the Age of AI
In a world where AI can deliver answers in seconds, students still need time to wrestle with ideas, make mistakes, and experience the moment when learning finally clicks. This blog looks at how educators can embrace AI while still protecting the productive struggle that makes learning meaningful.

Cody Carlton
Jul 144 min read


Structure Isn’t the Enemy of Creativity: A Practical Guide for Growing Creative Afterschool Programs
Implementing creativity in lessons doesn’t have to look like chaos. Creativity and structure can work together to help enhance activities in any after-school program. There are easy ways to build that after-school program structure, which range from organizing supplies to creating a calm, purposeful space where students can take creative risks.

Tracey Carter
Jul 74 min read


Turning a Crisis Into a Catalyst
Alabama Virtual Institute began in summer 2020 when College Admissions Made Possible transformed its in-person camp into a virtual program. Strong family demand led to a virtual afterschool program supporting reading, math, and peer connection. By September, the model had expanded beyond Birmingham, eventually growing into a statewide resource for students, educators, and volunteers.

Dr. Briana Morton
Jun 302 min read


What Is Reflective Practice — and How Can It Help Students and Teachers Grow?
It’s time to slow down and embrace reflective practice! Many teachers and students rush through a lesson without ever looking back. Reflection allows both students and teachers to pause, consider what just happened, and apply what was learned, making the experience more meaningful and intentional. Student reflection may mean using an exit ticket to show how what they just learned applies to their lives. Teacher reflection is looking back to determine what worked well, what di

Tracey Carter
Jun 234 min read


Introducing the CAMP Resource Blog: Sharing What Helps, Celebrating What Works
At CAMP, we see the power of strong instruction, thoughtful support, and intentional partnerships every day. We also know that some of the best ideas in education are already happening across classrooms, programs, homes, campuses, and communities. They deserve to be shared.
That is why we are launching the CAMP Resource Blog.

Cody Carlton
Jun 183 min read
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