School's (Almost) Out For Summer...Now What?

The start of the New Year clearly symbolizes one thing for students…the halfway point of the school year! Though the seasons may differ for students residing in different parts of the world, many still refer to the months of June and July as “summer” and begin looking ahead to their break from school. However, this time off from school doesn't have to mean a complete halt to all things academic. In fact, many fun-filled academic-based summer programs are offered at boarding schools in the U.S. and Canada. Boarding school summer programs are ideal because as “home” for students from around the world during the academic year, these campuses are well equipped to serve students year round. Also, most of these campuses feature housing and amenities unlike traditional camps. Here is a sampling of some unique opportunities that are available to students in 2011:

Any future Mark Zuckerberg’s out there? How about the next Ben & Jerry’s creator? Young entrepreneurs aged 14-18 will get a head-start developing their own business while attending Camp $tart-Up at Wilbraham and Monson Academy in Massachusetts. The weeklong camp, held July 29-August 7, will include behind-the-scenes field trips to places such as the Hasbro Company and the Basketball Hall of Fame. Participants will leave with a business plan and a stock portfolio using the school’s high-tech simulated trading floor.

Shutterbugs entering grades eight through 10 will enjoy the Documentary Photography Program at Episcopal High School. Participants will learn the fundamentals of documentary photography using the school’s Washington D.C. location, including visits to battlefields and monuments, as the backdrop for building their own portfolio. The program, held July 17-24, will culminate in an exhibition of student work on the school’s campus. Students of all experience levels are welcome and all equipment will be provided by the school.

Budding musicians will have the opportunity to refine their skills and learn new techniques while attending the Hotchkiss School’s Summer Portals Chamber Music Program held June 26-July 17 on the school’s Connecticut campus. The Portals program offers two options: Instrumental for students ages 12-15 and Vocal for students ages 15-18. Instrumental program participants should be accomplished string or piano solo performers and will be selected via audition. Working with professional chamber musicians, participants will receive individual instruction, ample performance opportunities, and weekly master classes. Vocal program participants will receive individual vocal coaching as well as work on style, foreign language diction, and fundamental ensemble principles. The Portals program will culminate in a joint concert showcasing the accomplishments of students from both the Instrumental and Vocal programs.

Parlez-vous français? Students ages 11-16 who answer “oui” or “pas encore” should consider attending the Stanstead College Language Adventure Program. Participants in the French as a Second Language program will use the Canadian school’s location in the French-speaking province of Quebec as the backdrop for their 3-week immersion into the language. The Language Adventure Program, held July 3-23, will feature interactive language instruction, language-oriented outdoor activities, and off-campus cultural excursions.

For those students entering grades six through eight who prefer a visit to Washington D.C. over Disney World, Woodberry Forest School in Virginia offers a program that is sure to hit the mark. The Journey Through Hallowed Ground program, held July 10-22, will take campers on a two-week adventure to some of the most historic locations in the U.S. While walking in the footsteps of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison participants will gain a new perspective and appreciation for the founding fathers of the U.S. Off-campus excursions will include a visit to Monticello, a canoe trip on the Potomac River, and a bicycling adventure to Gettysburg. Students will not only experience these historic landmarks themselves, they will digitally record their adventures and produce a mini-film to share with their family at the culmination of the program.

A wonderful feature of each of these programs is that, though primarily academic in nature, a good portion of time is set aside for recreational activities and opportunities to develop strong friendships with other campers from around the world. No matter which program a student attends, they are certain to have a great experience pursuing their academic passion!