Summer Camp Memories

The 2023 Summer Programs at Great Hearts have come to an end, but the memories made by all who attended will last for years to come. In Arizona, 1,207 scholars attended Summer Programs, which included Summer Camp and Kinder Readiness, across the four weeks of June. In Texas, 700 scholars attended across 2 weeks of programs.

Attendees experienced a meaningful summer camp that stimulated their minds, got them active and engaged, all while creating lifelong friendships within the framework of a classical education at Great Hearts Summer Camps. These camps are offered every summer during the month of June across the campuses at Great Hearts Texas and Great Hearts Arizona for any student in rising grades 1st-5th, and Kinder Readiness for new, incoming kindergarten students, including those on the Great Hearts waitlist.

According to Lindsey Diaz-Gonzalez, a Great Hearts Co-curricular Team Manager, Great Hearts Summer Programs were designed and created not only to help scholars keep their skills sharp during the summer months, but also to provide a safe, engaging camp experience where they can foster friendships and build memories that will last a lifetime. “Fashioned after traditional camps from our childhood, campers enjoy camp songs, games, hands-on activities, and more, all centered around a central theme. Each week had its own set of exciting themes and this year did not disappoint with the camps Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead! (Science – Technology – Engineering – Arts – Math), Wild West, Masters of Tales, and ArtVenture. Campers worked together to build, create, explore, problem solve, tell stories, perform, and had some good old-fashioned fun in the process,” said Diaz-Gonzalez.

Diaz-Gonzalez added that invited special guests and vendors are often the highlight of any given week. This year, campers watched performances from traditional Hawaiian dancers and classical ballet dancers. Live animals were brought in one day for students to touch, hold, and observe close-up. Artists also came in to teach the campers how to appreciate the traditional Japanese arts. These are just a few of the special experiences that the campers enjoyed and learned from this year.

Camps are intentionally designed be a place where fun and acquiring new skills and information blend.  “My favorite part of camp this summer was seeing campers smiling faces while being silly, trying something new or creating a project that they are really proud of,” said Kim Pfeifer-Adams, East Valley Regional Manager.

“Summer 2023 has been filled with laughter, excitement, and overall great fun,” said Deb Peil, West Valley Regional Manager. “As I toured campuses this summer, I am amazed at the interactions and engagement with the campers. We have a strong team of camp counselors that have poured their hearts into creating an experience for the campers far beyond their expectations. I have witnessed awe, amazement, curiosity, and tons of energy.  The summer has been a huge success for our teams, our campers, and the families we serve!”

Above all the experiences, learning, and growing that took place, great value was placed on the relationship building and social aspect of the Summer Programs. “We find that summer is the perfect opportunity for building and strengthening friendships both with existing scholars and incoming scholars,” said Diaz-Gonzalez.

If you missed out on the camps this year, watch for information for next year’s camps in the spring. Organizers are already looking forward to next year!

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts?  Please contact jason.moore@greathearts.org.