Q: How much is WSSCC's VentureX Academy?
A: It's FREE for all registered students! This includes all lodging and meals.
Q: Is there an age limit for the Academy?
A: Not Exactly. However, as many students will be staying multiple days overnight, we recommend students be at least high school juniors. Single day programs (such as ski-manufacturing) could be open to sophomores, but they would require a teacher recommendation. There are always exceptions on a student-by-student basis - please email if you have questions.
Q: Can my student/child take multiple programs?
A: In some cases yes. The WFR certification runs from June 2-6th (with an evening session on the 6th) and cannot be interrupted. The Ski Manufacturing class runs daily from June 2-11th (each student is scheduled for one full day). Our program spots are limited, so please get your student registered early and have their parent fill out the online waiver form (both found on this website).
Q: Where will my student/child be housed? Where will they eat?
A: Students will be housed at the Wyngate by Wyndom Hotel (400 E. Tomichi Ave), 2-to-a-room, and will be provided 3-meals a day at specific times in Western Colorado University's dining hall.
Q: Will there be an adult contact on site the whole week?
A: Yes. WSSCC Executive Director, Colin Sullivan will be staying on campus in a supervisory role throughout the full Academy. Colin is the head of WSSCC, a former classroom teacher, an outdoor trips leader, as well as a college residence advisor. Once registered, students will be provided with a class schedule and a list of rules and regulations. Any student who refuses to comply or willingly breaks Academy rules will have their parent/guardian contacted and will immediately be asked to leave the Academy.
Q: Why am I asked to sign a liabilty waiver? Are these activities dangerous?
A: Not exactly. The waiver is standard procedure to protect WSSCC and our professional instructors from incidences of human error on the part of the participants. Our VentureX coursework is designed to challenge students brains as well as their bodies, and the classes sometimes occur in nature, so there is always inherent risk associated with them. WSSCC engages in semi-annual risk management seminars through our partnership with Outdoor Empowered Network, and carries insurance that covers our students and instructors. The safety and secruity of the students/children enrolled in our programming is always our top priority.
Q: Is there a gas/mileage reimbursement if I drive my own child?
A: Yes! If you're travelling from anywhere outside of Gunnison County, WSSCC will reimburse your gas at the federal rate of .70 cents per mile. You must email program director Colin Sullivan at colin.sullivan@wsscareercollaborative.org to take advantage of the reimbursement program.
Don't see your question here? Navigate to our "Contact" page and contact a WSSCC representative.