Family FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Camp KIPP DC?
Session 1: June 25–July 7, 2024
Session 2: July 9–July 21, 2024
Please note that camp dates are currently still subject to change based on the school calendar and facilities availability. We will provide timely updates if/when we are required to make any changes.
Where is Camp KIPP DC?
Camp KIPP DC will be hosted at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, PA.
Where do Camp KIPP DC campers come from?
Our campers are selected from KIPP DC elementary and middle schools. KIPP DC students currently enrolled in grades 3–8 are welcome to enroll in Camp KIPP DC.
How will campers get to camp?
Campers travel to Camp KIPP DC via luxury bus. Information on exact pick-up locations will be provided at Family Orientation Sessions. Campers travel to camp with several Camp KIPP DC team members.
What are the living accommodations like at Camp KIPP DC?
The living arrangements at camp will be dormitory style. Counselors are responsible for a group of campers and will be living with them during their stay at camp. We assure you that your children will find their stay at camp quite comfortable.
In addition, families may request gender-affinity housing for their child, which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. All campers will be offered this option. Campers who choose gender-affinity housing will reside in single rooms in a mixed-gender, gender-affinity floor, wing, or building. Campers residing in the gender-affinity housing will not be excluded from any aspect of camp.
We will also ensure gender-neutral bathroom spaces are available in all dorms.
Please see our Gender Inclusive Policy for more information on how we strive to include all in the camp experience.
Who will be on the team at Camp KIPP DC?
Camp KIPP DC is staffed by KIPP DC teachers and alumni as well as dedicated individuals looking to ensure campers are safe and have the time of their lives.
What are the typical activities?
Camp KIPP DC offers all types of activities including swimming, art, music, dance, theater, outdoor adventure, and athletics (soccer, basketball, volleyball, kickball, and more).
What will the dining situation be at Camp KIPP DC, and will food allergies be accommodated?
Our facility partner cafeteria services are excellent, and any and all accommodations will be met, including dietary restrictions, allergies, and vegan/vegetarian needs.
What accommodations are made for students with special needs?
If your child requires special accommodations, we will review their specific needs on a case-by-case basis. Inclusivity is at the heart of our camp experience, and we make every effort to accommodate our campers’ needs.
How “co-ed” is Camp KIPP DC?
All camp activities are co-ed and separated by age group except for elective blocks which are comprised of boys and girls from all age groups.
How is Camp KIPP DC ensuring gender inclusivity at camp?
Camp KIPP DC and our parent organization, Change Summer, are committed to an anti-racist, anti-heterosexist, anti-transphobic, anti-ablest approach and provide equal opportunity for all members of our organizational family. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and strive to ensure that all voices are appreciated and heard.
Housing: Campers residing in gender-affinity housing will not be excluded from any aspect of camp! Families may request gender-affinity housing for their child, which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. All campers will be offered this option. Campers who choose gender-affinity housing will reside in single rooms in a mixed-gender, gender-affinity floor, wing, or building.
Restrooms: Gender-neutral bathroom spaces will be available in all dorms. To the extent possible, we will also have gender-neutral bathrooms around campus. Where not available, campers have two options: Go to the bathroom that corresponds to their sex assigned at birth, or walk with an adult to a designated gender-neutral bathroom.
Changing areas: Campers will change in a private location. If there is no private location, campers will change in the locker room of their sex assigned at birth.
Swimwear: We encourage all campers to wear appropriate swimwear that feels most comfortable to them. Please see the Camper Packing List for more information regarding this.
Please see our Gender Inclusive Policy for more information on how we strive to include all in the camp experience.
What are your COVID-19 vaccination and testing policies?
Our number one priority is the safety of our camp community. Therefore:
We strongly encourage all campers and team members to be vaccinated and boosted, if eligible.
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required for campers to attend camp nor for team members to work at camp.
If you are experiencing any symptoms, we strongly encourage all campers and team members to complete a COVID-19 test prior to arrival to camp.
We will continue to use robust cleaning protocols, test anyone at camp if they are symptomatic, and provide safe spaces for isolation as needed. These policies are subject to change at any time due to the evolving circumstances of the pandemic. We will continue to follow CDC guidance and work with KIPP DC, our university facility partner, and the local department of health to maintain the highest level of safety at camp.
What is the cost of Camp KIPP DC?
Camp KIPP DC’s tuition is discounted to $100 per camper if you enroll by February 29, 2024. If you enroll after February 29, the regular camp tuition is $150 per camper. This tuition covers the full two-week program, including transportation, meals, lodging, field trips, and Camp KIPP DC apparel. If paying camp tuition is an issue or concern, please choose the “pay later option” when enrolling. All families are required to make a $25 deposit upon enrollment. Campers will be considered tentatively enrolled until deposit payment is received.
What is the goal of Camp KIPP DC?
The goal of camp is for campers to:
Gain independence;
Increase their curiosity;
Become more responsible for themselves and each other; and
Grow confidence in their abilities by challenging themselves to explore new opportunities.