Classical Mathematics Summer Institute

A rigorous three-week summer program designed to develop reasoning, mathematical problem-solving, and proof-based thinking.

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Overview

The three-week Mathematical Problem-Solving and Proofs program offers advanced high school students a rare opportunity to engage deeply with mathematics in an environment designed to support sustained focus, reflection, and intellectual growth. Set in a calm, coastal setting removed from everyday distractions, the program allows students to immerse themselves fully in serious mathematical thinking while drawing inspiration from a quiet, natural landscape that encourages clarity and concentration.

The academic experience is intentionally rigorous and rooted in classical mathematical traditions, emphasizing reasoning, proof, and long-form problem solving rather than speed or memorization. Students work through challenging, multi-step problems drawn from algebra, functions, trigonometry, and introductory analytical ideas, learning to construct arguments, justify conclusions, and communicate their reasoning with precision. This classical approach is paired with contemporary applications, helping students see how deep mathematical thinking underpins modern fields such as engineering, science, and technology.

Instruction is led by experienced educators with strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to mentorship. Small class sizes allow instructors to guide students closely through discussion, questioning, and individualized feedback, creating an atmosphere where ideas are tested, refined, and strengthened. Students regularly present their work, engage in mathematical dialogue, and revise solutions, developing both confidence and mathematical maturity.

By the end of the program, students leave not only with stronger problem-solving and proof skills, but with a deep conceptual foundation that allows them to enter calculus with confidence and ease. They understand how ideas connect, how to reason through unfamiliar problems, and how to approach advanced mathematics without intimidation. The program concludes with a Math Olympiad and Exhibition Night, where students present their work and reflect on their growth as mathematical thinkers, inspired by both the intellectual challenge and the environment in which they studied.

Apply Here!

Program Summary

3 weeks, in-person format in Dhërmi, Albania

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
Audience: Highly motivated high school students seeking advanced mathematical challenge and preparation for calculus
Rigorous mathematics focus: Reasoning, mathematical problem-solving, and proofs rooted in classical traditions
Core topics: Algebraic structure, functions, polynomials, trigonometry, sequences, and introductory analytical ideas
Extended problem-solving: Long, multi-step problems emphasizing justification, precision, and multiple solution paths
Discussion-driven instruction: Student-led board work, mathematical dialogue, and proof-based exploration
Instruction by experienced educators: Faculty with strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to mentorship
Small cohort size: 7–10 students to ensure individualized feedback and sustained academic engagement
Calculus readiness: Students leave prepared to enter calculus with confidence and conceptual ease
Housing: Optional residential program available through separate registration (not included in tuition)

Who Attends

This program is designed for highly motivated high school students who are eager to engage deeply with mathematics and are prepared for sustained intellectual challenge.

Students who attend typically:

Enjoy reasoning through complex problems, not just finding answers
Are curious about why mathematical ideas work and are willing to justify their thinking
Have a strong foundation in algebra and are comfortable grappling with challenging material
Are interested in problem-solving and proofs rather than test preparation or acceleration
Value discussion, persistence, and learning from mistakes

This program is best suited for students who are excited by depth over speed, welcome challenge, and are ready to participate in a small, discussion-driven academic environment.

Learning Format

The three-week Mathematical Problem-Solving and Proofs program follows a structured and rigorous learning format designed to support deep reasoning and sustained intellectual engagement. The program emphasizes depth over speed and combines guided instruction, extended problem solving, and thoughtful discussion.

Focused Instruction:
Core mathematical ideas and structures are introduced through concise, concept-driven instruction that emphasizes reasoning, definitions, and proof rather than procedural shortcuts.

Extended Problem Solving:
Students work on long, multi-layered problems that require persistence, strategy, and justification. Problems are designed to deepen understanding and encourage multiple solution approaches.

Discussion & Board Work:
Regular whole-group discussions and student-led board presentations allow participants to explain their reasoning, critique solutions, and learn from different perspectives.

Small Group Collaboration:
Students collaborate in small groups to explore challenging problems, test ideas, and refine arguments before sharing their work with the larger group.

Individualized Feedback:
Faculty provide ongoing, personalized feedback on students’ written solutions and oral explanations, supporting growth in clarity, precision, and mathematical maturity.

Progressive Depth:
The program is intentionally sequenced to build from foundational reasoning to more sophisticated problem-solving and proof techniques over the three weeks.

Supplementary Challenges:
Optional advanced problems are available for students seeking additional depth and extension beyond the core work.

Program Overview

Academic Component

Week I

Structure & Mathematical Architecture

Algebraic transformation & equivalence
Symmetry & invariance
Strategic rewriting of expressions
Pattern recognition and conjecture formation
Development of clear mathematical argument

Week II

Proof & Logical Discipline

Multi-step algebraic proof
Identity verification & transformation
Inequalities & bounds
Direct proof and proof by contradiction
Precision in written mathematics

Cultural, Historical & Outdoor Component

The academic program is complemented by a structured series of cultural, historical, and outdoor excursions along the Ionian coastline of southern Albania. These experiences are intentionally integrated into the three-week schedule to complement the intellectual rigor of the institute while giving students

Students encounter the layered history of the region through guided exploration of the historic Old Town of Dhermi and visits to the traditional hillside towns of Himarë and Vuno, where architectural continuity remains visible in the built environment. This contemporary historical fabric is set in dialogue with the deeper classical past through excursions to the ancient archaeological sites of Butrint or Apollonia, offering direct engagement with enduring civic and cultural structures of the Mediterranean world.

The surrounding coastline further situates students within the scale and geography of southern Albania. faculty-led excursions to the Grama Bay and Bay of St. Andrew, together with a guided ridge hike overlooking the Ionian Sea, provide structured engagement with the coastal terrain. Supervised intervals at the sea allow the measured physical activity within a carefully managed and secure environment.

Throughout the program, all excursions are conducted under faculty supervision and scheduled deliberately so as to reinforce - and never detract from - the academic focus of the institute. The three weeks conclude with a formal academic symposium and closing dinner.

Week III

Functional Thinking & Mathematical Independence

Functional relationships and composition
Parameter analysis
Structural rate of change
Generalization of prior investigations
Capstone proof presentation & defense

Evaluation + Certification

Each successful participant in the Classical Mathematics Summer Institute program will receive a written evaluation from their instructor, along with a certificate of completion. The written evaluation reflects the student’s engagement, problem-solving approach, reasoning, and development in proof-based mathematics throughout the three-week program.

The certificate recognizes the student’s commitment to rigorous academic study and the skills developed during the program, including persistence, mathematical reasoning, and clarity of written and oral argument. While the program does not award formal academic credit, the certificate and evaluation serve as meaningful documentation of advanced academic engagement and may be included as supplemental material in college applications.

Requesting Your Evaluation and Certificate

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a digital copy of their written evaluation and certificate of completion.

Although we are unable to provide an official academic transcript, we can issue a formal letter describing the nature, rigor, and structure of the Mathematical Problem-Solving and Proofs program. This letter may be used to provide additional context for college applications or other academic purposes.

To request this letter, please email evaluations@sttheodoresacademy.org with the following information:

Full Name
Email Address
Year of program participation
Documents requested: Written explanation of program

This letter can be used as supplementary documentation to demonstrate the student’s participation in a highly selective, proof-centered academic program.

Program Fee + Financial Aid

Program Fee

The total program fee for the three-week Mathematical Problem-Solving and Proofs program is $7,200.
This fee covers all academic aspects of the program, including rigorous instruction, curriculum materials, daily problem packets, faculty mentoring, written evaluations, and the final Math Olympiad / Exhibition Night.

Housing, meals, transportation, and leisure excursions are not included in the program fee and are organized separately.

Additional Costs

There may be additional costs for optional residential arrangements, meals, transportation, or leisure activities. Any optional services and associated fees will be communicated clearly in advance. Depending on the options selected, these additional costs may be up to $1,500.

Payment Policy

A nonrefundable application fee of $35 must be paid in full at the time of application in order for the application to be considered.

Once admitted, families will receive enrollment instructions and payment deadlines. Tuition is non refundable and non transferable, except as outlined in the enrollment agreement.

Financial Assistance

We offer limited financial aid based on demonstrated need and available funding. Financial assistance is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

If the applicant and/or their parents (if applicable) have a combined gross income exceeding $30,000, financial aid may not be awarded. However, all applicants are encouraged to apply, as each request is reviewed individually.

To apply for financial assistance, applicants must submit a Financial Aid Application Form along with the required documentation by the application deadline. The form will be available within the program application.

Please Note:
Financial aid is not subsidized and is available to U.S. citizens, Albanian citizens, and permanent residents of Albania only. International students are not eligible for financial aid. Financial aid requests will be considered only after a completed program application has been submitted. Late requests will not be accepted.

Program Fee and Financial Aid FAQ

A. Yes. Further payment instructions will be provided in your admittance letter. Tuition payments must be completed online via the online system by the deadline of May 31, 2025.
A: Tax forms from parents are required for every applicant under the age of 20.
A: No. We are unable to waive the application fee.
A. No. Financial aid is available to U.S. citizens, Albanian citizens and permanent residents of Albania only. International students are not eligible to apply for financial aid.
A: Yes. The College Essay & SAT Prep program financial aid application form is part of the program’s online application. Once you indicate an interest in applying for aid, the aid application application form will appear for filling out. In order to apply for aid, submit this form and supporting documents online with the rest of your application by the application deadline.
A. College Essay & SAT Prep financial aid funds are need-based awards, which means that funding is based on the financial situation of the student. Financial aid takes into account many factors; however, as a guide, if the applicant’s and parents’ (if appropriate) combined adjusted gross income exceeds $30,000, an aid award is unlikely.
A: Yes, you need to complete the College Essay & SAT Prep online application in order to access the financial aid application form. We advise submitting the financial aid application form prior to receiving your admissions decision letter.
A: Yes, we will notify all aid applicants of their admission along with their aid award by email according to the program schedule on this site.
A: We cannot accept applications for financial aid beyond the program application deadline.
A: Awards only apply towards tuition and possible support for a computer device. Aid for College Essay & SAT Prep does not cover housing.

Accommodation & Dining

Participants will stay in comfortable, shared accommodations for the duration of the 3-week Classical Mathematics Summer Institute . Accommodations are conveniently located near the learning facilities, offering a safe and structured environment for students.
Boarding, meals, and leisure activities are organized separately from the academic program fee and are billed separately.

Room Arrangements

Students will be housed in shared rooms with other program participants.
Rooms are furnished with essential amenities, including beds, desks, and storage space.
Housing assignments will be made based on availability and roommate preferences submitted during registration.

Meals & Dining

Meals are billed separately from the academic program fee.
Meal arrangements typically include breakfast and dinner, with lunch arranged independently.
Meals are provided in a communal dining area with a variety of nutritious options.
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

Supervision & Program Expectations

Staff and program coordinators will be present on-site to provide oversight and support throughout the program.
Housing facilities have designated quiet hours to maintain a focused study environment.
Students are expected to adhere to the program’s housing policies, which will be provided upon acceptance.

Apply

Apply Here!

To apply for the 3-week Classical Mathematics Summer Institute, please submit the following required materials along with your online application form:

Application Fee: A non-refundable $35 application fee is due upon application submission.
Statement of Intent: Please tell us (in 250 words or less) what you hope to achieve by attending this summer program.
Personal Essay: Submit an essay (500 words or less) discussing a significant experience or challenge you’ve faced.
Resume or CV (PDF): which includes the following information: employment; education; extra-curricular academic and community activities (note whether an office held was elected or appointed); honors; awards; professional registration; professional societies; publications; avocations; hobbies; travel.
Academic Transcripts (upload scanned copy, does not need to be official)
Transcripts should be submitted with the program application from all academic institutions from which the applicant has received high school credit or above. The transcript must include a complete record of courses taken and examinations taken, grades received and degrees and dates of degrees received. Transcripts should be clear and legible when uploaded. Both official and unofficial copies are accepted at the time of application; however, official transcripts may be required upon acceptance. If the transcript is not in English, a certified English translation must be provided. If the school does not issue official transcripts, a certified letter from the institution must be submitted, detailing courses taken, grades earned, and the expected or completed graduation date.
Financial Aid Application (optional U.S. or AL applicants only)

Application Deadlines

Applications and application fees are due by the program application deadline. Early completion of the application and application fee are encouraged! Please see below for the detailed deadlines for the upcoming program cycle.

* Contact St. Theodore Admissions to cancel your enrollment by this date to receive a full (100%) refund of the $7,200 program fee.

**Contact St. Theodore Admissions to cancel your enrollment by this date to receive a partial (50%) refund of the program fee (amounting to $3,600).

Summer Programs 2026 Deadlines

Online Application Opens February 15, 2026

Application Deadline (Including Financial Aid Applications) May 15, 2026

Admission + Aid Decisions Sent to Applicants June 5, 2026

Registration/Program Fee Payment Deadline June 12, 2026

Cancellation Deadline for Full (100%) Refund* June 20, 2026

Withdrawal Deadline For Partial Refund** June 25, 2026

Start of Program July 15, 2026

End of Program August 5, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

A: Admissions and aid decisions will be emailed to you by June 5th, 2026.
A: No, the summer program does not grant deferrals. If you are admitted but unable to attend, you would need to reapply in another year.
A: No. Any former applicant wishing to reapply to a St. Theodore’s summer program must resubmit all forms and documentation.
A: Applicants must be at least 15 years old. A high level of academic skill is necessary to take full advantage of our rigorous program.
A: A valid visa for entry within AL is required to be supplied by international citizenship participants of the program. St. Theodore will not sponsor new visas for enrollment in this program.
A. Transcripts should be submitted electronically through the online application. Applicants should scan a copy of their transcript(s) and upload these documents into the online application. During the application process, it is not necessary to send and official transcript.
A: Scanned transcripts can be unofficial or official. If we need further information, we may ask for an official transcript to be sent to our office for review.
A: Please contact the admissions office by emailing us at
admissions@sttheodoresacademy.org
A: Students in the 3-week summer program are housed in comfortable, shared accommodations located near the program's learning facilities. The housing is included in the program fee and provides a safe and supportive environment. There are no traditional dorms, but the living arrangements are designed to offer a comfortable and community-focused experience. Students will share rooms with other participants, and housing assignments will be made based on availability and preferences submitted during registration.
A. To request a copy of your evaluation please follow the instructions here: