GSC Launches Residential AI Summer Camp for Middle School Students

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Wednesday, May 6th, 2026

Gordon State College, in partnership with BAAB, will host the InnovateAI™ Summer Camp from July 7 to 10, a residential program designed to introduce middle school students to artificial intelligence, creative problem-solving and real-world technology skills through an immersive college campus experience.
 
The four-day, three-night camp will welcome students in grades 6–8 to live and learn on GSC’s Barnesville campus through hands-on instruction, collaborative projects and guided exploration of emerging technologies.
 
Offered through GSC’s Division of Continuing Education, the program reflects the college’s commitment to expanding access to workforce-relevant learning opportunities and preparing students for future career pathways.
 
“This program creates an early pathway for students to explore innovation in a meaningful and accessible way,” said Theresa Harvard Johnson, GSC Continuing Education program manager.  “By introducing artificial intelligence concepts at the middle school level, we are helping students build confidence, curiosity and skills that will serve them well into the future.”
 
Participants will engage in daily AI lab sessions, develop original projects using AI tools and present their work during a closing showcase for family, peers and community members. In addition to technical skill-building, students will gain early exposure to college life through a structured residential experience in supervised campus housing.
 
Families interested in learning more are invited to attend a Parent Information Night on Thursday, April 23, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the GSC Student Center Auditorium. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet program leaders, review the camp structure and ask questions about registration, campus safety and student experience.
 
Registration is now open, with limited spots available. Additional program details and registration information can be found at theinnovateai.com.