A platform that encourages healthy conversation, spiritual support, growth and fellowship
NOLACatholic Parenting Podcast
A natural progression of our weekly column in the Clarion Herald and blog
The best in Catholic news and inspiration - wherever you are!
AOL has STEM push
-
By Peter Finney Jr.
Summer Activities, Clarion Herald
It pays to listen, says Genia Roper, director of Academy of Our Lady’s Summer Camp, who has used the insights she’s gleaned from parents and campers of previous years to continue to strengthen the program.
“The camp is just like what happens within our school – we are very STEM-focused in science, technology, engineering and math,” Roper said. “Last year, we integrated STEM into our summer camp. Our robotics team came in and students were able to build robots and actually work with them.”
Roper said the open communication she and her staff have had with parents has allowed the camp to remain exciting and relevant. Sometimes, it’s the simple questions, such as whether or not the camp should remain open or close the week of July 4.
“That Fourth of July week, the parents were like, ‘Please, stay open that week,’ and I just said, ‘Sure,’” Roper said. “I love to communicate with them and see what they like and what their needs are. We’re always happy that the parents are happy as well.”
The emphasis on STEM activities has been made possible by a Brown Foundation service-learning grant.The camp offers a variety of activities for both boys and girls, ages 3-12. Session 1 covers May 31-July 1, and Session 2 is July 5-22, with the camp day running from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
In addition to STEM activities, campers participate in arts and crafts, swimming in an above-ground pool on campus, sliding on an industrial-size waterslide, skits, sports, field trips and more. Extended care is available.
There are themed days, and many of the “field trips” actually are done on campus with visits from various providers.
Cost is $140 a week, with extended care available for $25 a week. There is a $35 one-time registration fee.
Academy of Our Lady Summer Camp is located at 5501 Westbank Expy., Marrero. For more detailed information and to register, go to theacademyofourlady.org/summer-camp.
For more information, contact Roper, (504) 341-6217 or [email protected].