exploration || our philosophy

Exploration Summer Programs creates a dynamic environment of intellectual inquiry, responsible decision making, and spirited adventure. Led by enthusiastic teachers, our students are encouraged to respect the differences that make us individuals and to find the common ground that makes us a community. At its heart, EXPLO inspires students to challenge themselves, discover the world of people and ideas, and experience the joy of learning.

EXPLO at Yale
on the campus of Yale University
New Haven, Connecticut
Students entering grades 10-12
~ 700 students attend each session
95% Residential, 5% Day Students

EXPLO at Wellesley
on the campus of Wellesley College
Wellesley, Massachusetts
Students entering grades 8+9
~ 625 students attend each session
70% Residential, 30% Day Students

EXPLO at St. Mark's
on the campus of St. Mark's School
Southborough, Massachusetts
Students entering grades 4+5, 6+7
~ 450 students attend each session
45% Residential, 55% Day Students

We believe that summer is the perfect time for young people to see that learning can be fun — that it can be joyful and invigorating, interesting and applicable. While they're with us, we want our students to open their minds, engage with different cultures, and try something new.

Exploration is an independent, not-for-profit academic enrichment program for students entering grades 4-12. From our founding in 1977, we've believed that college students who are excited about their interests (and excited about sharing their interests) are the perfect role models to teach and lead our students.

Our faculty is involved in as many aspects of the program as the students: faculty members teach the courses, live on the halls, chaperone the trips, coach the sports, and organize the extracurriculars. Because our staff is a part of every phase of student life, we believe that each moment in the day can be a learning moment.

We believe as well in the importance of diversity. Our students come from more than 40 states and 50 countries, and our faculty is similarly diverse — and not only in its geographical make-up. Every year, our staff is made up of scientists, artists, programmers, dancers, writers, athletes, and engineers from all over the country and the world.

Yet the common thread that brings the community together is a love of learning and new ideas. We value the silly, the innovative, the experimental, the courageous, the bold. We value Exploration.

Exploration Summer Programs is operated by Exploration School, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)3 educational organization.