New Orleans summer camps see influx in applications ahead of summer

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — As the school year winds down, it’s the time when children start looking forward to making lasting memories at summer camps.

Parents filled the Joe Brown Recreation Center eager to sign their kids up for summer camp. Natasha Robinson with the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission says camp is a life-changing experience for children, especially when it comes to building friendships.

“Year after year some of our partners see the same kids come in, and year after year for all kinds of things sports to maybe a little bit of academic enrichment. Then, they grow friendships during the summer at their camp. So, they get to come back and see their friends every year,” said Robinson.

Serving over 1,500 children annually, several new summer camp programs are partnering with NORD to foster growth and build stronger community connections.

Stem Heads aims to inspire children by introducing them to the world of STEM and showing them how fun science can be.

“Our first session is artificial intelligence and biotech. So, we’re going to have some exposure to our biotechnology presence in New Orleans. But also, we have field trips, which will include nature walks. Also, a visit to the butterfly garden,” said CEO of Stem Heads Shelia Bishop.

As Wilson Academy says, the goal is to have fun throughout the summer break while also challenging their minds to ensure they are on the right track for the next school year.

“We have a program called readers. Our leaders go before we start any of the activities. Our academics are first. When they get there, that’s the first thing they have to do is read, and safe and fun things to do. We offer sports. We offer etiquette classes and do mini field trips twice a week,” said Wilson Academy Director Monique Wilson.

“We look forward to, you know, lots of time outside, enjoying their green spaces across the stadium,” said Robinson.

Camp registration continues for the rest of the week then has a brief pause but picks back up from March 17 through May 9. Registration is done by appointment only. Parents are asked to bring all relevant documents.

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