Summer Camps Begin To Wind Down

As School Year Approaches

By Anna Hodge

The beginning of August marked not only the final stretch of summer, but also the halfway point of summer camps for Newtown students. Between the Newtown Parks & Recreation and Continuing Education’s SMART (science, music and art) camps, there seems to be an endless supply of engaging activities for the younger members of town.

According to Elissa Gellis, director of Newtown Continuing Education, the SMART programs drew in more participants than in recent years. This summer, 100 students attended SMART, divided into two sessions, each two weeks long. In years past, the average attendance number was 80 students.

One reason for the program’s popularity is because of its “large age range,” Ms Gellis pointed out.

“The program is offered to students in kindergarten [through] sixth grade,” Ms Gellis said. “The kids get to learn new things and they get to play.”

The classes switch every half hour as well, allowing the students to remain busy.

As for the future of the SMART programs, Ms Gellis said they are always looking for something new to add, in particular a new science class.

However, the program’s staff is one thing she hopes to remain constant.

“We have a fantastic staff, I am truly grateful,” Ms Gellis said.

Twenty-five staff members make up the SMART staff, with 30 staff members total, including the summer school that is offered.

“They love the kids, they love to do what they’re doing,” Ms Gellis said. “They’re great.”

SMART, which takes place at Head of Meadow Elementary School, finished its session on July 27. However, Newtown Parks and Recreation camps remain in full swing until the week of August 20.

RoseAnn Reggiano, assistant director of Newtown Parks & Recreation, said there have been a “balanced” number of campers across the board, be it sports, academic, or day camps.

Although day camps end this week, 14 camps will take place during August.

Newtown Parks & Recreation hosts a wide variety of camps for Newtown students. According to Ms Reggiano, “unless something comes along,” there are no plans to add any new camps. 

About the camps, Ms Reggiano said, “We have fabulous programs and everyone has enjoyed them.”

To learn more about Newtown Parks & Recreation camps, visit www.newtown-ct.gov.