What is "Camp" of Mathematical Queeries?
"Camp” of Mathematical Queeries is a six week virtual mathematics enrichment program for LGBTQ+ students entering grades 9-12. The enrichment, is designed to tap into the rich funds of knowledge of the LGBTQ+ community and to provide a space in which LGBTQ+ and mathematical identity are affirmed as interconnected entities, central to the teaching and learning of mathematics, in particular. Even the name of the program, “Camp” of Mathematical Queeries, has been designed to tap into the cultural histories of LGBTQ+ individuals, who remain vastly underrepresented in STEM fields. The word “Camp” is in quotation marks to invoke the aesthetic style of camp, which is closely associated with LGBTQ+ culture, especially the practice of drag. Queeries, a queer play on the term query, when used as a verb means to question, often as a form of doubt. In the context of “Camp” the word “Queeries” is meant to honor the traditions of LGBTQ+ individuals that have sought to live their lives authentically by exploring routes and questions outside of the dominant, normative culture. Throughout the six weeks students will engage in activities of mathematical problem posing and problem solving through group worthy mathematical tasks centered on LGBTQ+ culture and history.
When is "Camp" of Mathematical Queeries?
Our 2022 cohort will begin Wednesday, July 6, 2022 and meet via zoom on Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays 4:30 - 6:30PM ET. Our final session will be on Monday, August 8, 2022.
Who Can Apply?
All LGBTQ+ students (Located in the United States) entering grades 9-12 in the 2022-2023 school year are encouraged to apply for "Camp" of Mathematical Queeries. The program has been designed to provide an LGBTQ+ affirming space, even for those who may not be "out" to their families, friends, or communities. For this reason, sessions will never be recorded. We will also never share any personal information or individual student works outside of "Camp" of Mathematical Queeries sessions, unless a student has given permission to do so.
How Much Does This Cost?
Because we believe this space should be as accessible as possible, "Camp" of Mathematical Queries is completely free! Due to limited personnel, however, we can only accept 22 applicants for the 2022 summer cohort.
What Math Will We Learn?
That will be up to you! This is not a traditional enrichment camp or school program. Our program is completely student generated. While we may provide a specific context (e.g., mathematics of drag) at various points throughout the program, students will be encouraged to pose whatever mathematical questions they find interesting related to that context (as well as other contexts they generate themselves). For this reason, there is no prescribed mathematical content that we will learn in the program. The mathematics we learn will depend entirely upon the questions students choose to explore and the mathematics that might aid them in that exploration. Similarly, we will never have required assignments or anything like a traditional school assignment. The goal of the program is to provide a space for mathematical play, discovery, and joy for LGBTQ+ students and for them to engage with the mathematics in the ways in which they find interesting and comfortable.
What if I'm Not a "Math Person"?
We don't believe that's "a thing." Everyone has the ability to engage in math and learn new things. We have no expectations of any prior knowledge or ability level. We just want to pose fun (and queer!) mathematical questions and learn ways to investigate those questions. Cohort members will always be expected to support other members in their problem solving efforts and to help everyone acquire the tools needed to solve the problems we pose. Our program facilitators will also always be there to provide support, affirmation, and love as we work through our questions. So, don't worry. We got you!
How Can I Apply?
Complete the application embeded below! Applications will be accepted through June 10, 2022. Applicants will be informed if they have been selected by June 15, 2022.
