New Heights' Summer Program continues to innovate

Offering programs and workshops in technology, art, adventure and more, New Heights' Summer Program is defined by its innovation.

"We incorporate research and best practices in youth development into everything offer during the summer," said Tracey Tucker, executive director at New Heights. "Whether participants are designing a t-shirt, building a robot or on an overnight trip to the Cape or Adirondacks, they are learning skills that research shows transfers into all areas of life."

Noting they work closely with the Exeter and Portsmouth school districts as well as others during the school year, Tucker said New Heights' Summer Program provides "once in a lifetime experiences." She said their staff also differentiates its programming, as members include those educated in outdoor education, psychology, fine arts, youth development, and other disciplines.

"Staff members have CPR, defensive driving, and Wilderness First Responder certifications and several have Master’s degrees," she added. "While our summer activities are certainly a lot of fun, there is a lot happening behind the scenes to ensure we deliver high quality, engaging experiences for youth."

With summer registration already in full swing, New Heights’ Wayne Moulton, who facilitates the agency’s award-winning STEM programming, said they also actively collaborate with area businesses.

“While technology is a big part of the workplace, what businesses are telling us is that they need a workforce that can communicate and collaborate more effectively as well as solve problems,” he said. “We are helping to develop tomorrow’s workforce.”

New Heights charges program fees, but offers need-based scholarships and all the equipment necessary to participate. To register or learn more about New Heights’ Summer Program, visit www.newheightsonline.org, or call (603) 422-8235.