PBSC Spring Youth College: Academic enrichment, nature trails and field trips

Palm Beach State College Corporate and Continuing Education held its inaugural Spring Youth College at the Lake Worth Campus March 16-20, 2026, offering a week of academic enrichment and hands-on activities for local students.

Among the participants was Jenna, the daughter of Debra Singleton, PBSC’s learning and professional development manager. She attended the camp with her older brother, Jaden. During one activity, Deborah Gordon, director of Corporate and Continuing Education, asked Jenna what she admired most about her mother.

“Her brains,” Jenna replied. When classmates thought she said “braids,” Jenna clarified with a smile: “No, her brains—cause she’s smart just like me.”

With thoughtful planning, Dante Ferrell, youth program manager, and the CCE team created a one-week schedule filled with academic enrichment programs, cursive writing, creative arts, Lego Build-It Challenges, nature trails and a field trip to Astro Skate.

“The goal is to help students achieve greater academic success and personal growth,” Ferrell said.

While spring break is pivotal for immediate academic strategies, it can also serve as an essential planning period for the summer. With the summer months offering a broader canvas for significant academic and personal growth, the goal was to optimize this valuable time, when staff and community need a place to send their kids to learn, have fun and grow.

Parents and educators can facilitate this process by encouraging open dialogue, offering feedback and guidance, whilst fostering an environment that values balance and growth. Together, this partnership can transform spring break from a simple pause into a powerful launching pad during the summer months.