General Description

A Summer Camp for Children

History:

The Science Exploration Camp provides a mix of recreational and science-oriented activities for elementary school-age children of Berkeley Lab employees (and it is open the the general public). We are offering enrollment, on a weekly basis, for six weeks towards the end of summer. Dates for Summer Camp 2005 are from July 11 through August 19.

The camp was formed by the Summer Child Care Subcommittee of the Work Family Committee who have formed a non-profit corporation entitled Science Exploration Camp (SEC). Since its inception, SEC has been administered by a volunteer board of directors. The directors hire staff and volunteer their time to organize the camp and to participate in the program as a support to the staff. We strongly encourage employees to join the SEC Board. The summer program is not subsidized by Berkeley Lab dut to DOE regulations. However, a memo of understanding (MOU) between Berkeley Lab and SEC to run the program at the Lab has been drafted in cooperation with Berkeley Lab. The Science Exploration Camp is self supported by camp fees. Parent participation allows us to contain the fees to below those charged by outside organizations.

Program:

The core program will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a morning science component and afternoon recreational activities. The science component is based upon weekly themes and will be held at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Lawrence Hall of Science and UC Botanical Gardens in Berkeley, California. Recreational activities will include adventures in local parks, swimming, field trips, etc. Berkeley Lab buses, UC charter buses and/or private buses will be used for transportation.

Before and after camp care from 7:45 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. is included in the fees. During these hours, quiet activities will be provided. Every effort will be made to accomodate those parents that begin work before 8:00 a.m. Parents should also make every effort to be prompt when picking children up from camp. Additional charges will incur for time after 5:15 p.m.

Program Size:

The program will accommodate a maximum of 30 children entering second to sixth grade, although this will depend upon the response to registration. High-school aged children may possibly participate as counselors-in-training.

Staffing:

The camp wil be staffed with a science teacher as Camp Director, and three counselors. Detailed job descriptions can be found in our Jobs section. Interested parents are encouraged to present a science module, or accompany the campers on outings. Other volunteers, such as retirees, may also be solicited.