working at camp kipp dc
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Camp KIPP DC?
Senior Leadership Team Orientation: June 10–June 16, 2024
Team Orientation: June 17–June 24, 2024
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.
Will team training be provided?
We have a well-planned Team Orientation that typically takes place the week before camp begins. During Team Orientation you will participate in a variety of activities, meetings, workshops, and events to prepare you for the summer ahead. We are confident when you have completed Team Orientation you will have a good grasp on your position at camp.
Will travel costs be covered?
Transportation to/from camp or a travel stipend will be provided for team members.
Where is Camp KIPP DC?
We are currently in the process of finalizing Camp KIPP DC’s 2024 summer home. Camp will take place on a beautiful college campus within driving distance of D.C. We look forward to sharing more information in the new year!
Where do Camp KIPP DC campers come from?
Our campers are selected from KIPP DC elementary and middle schools.
Can I work part of camp?
We are asking all team members be present for the entirety of the program. In some cases, special consent may be given for extenuating circumstances.
Is there a team member dress code for Camp KIPP DC?
Yes. Camp team t-shirts will be provided and must be worn until dinner each night and for certain camp evening activities. All counselors are required to wear proper swimming attire (swim trunks for men and one piece swimsuits for women). Sneakers are the normal footwear for camp, but sandals/flip flops are allowed for any water or non-athletic activity (i.e. theater, art, music, etc.). We want you to be comfortable and want you to be yourselves; we just ask that all attire be appropriate for children and for the assigned activity.
Is there a place for team members to get away on campus?
The demands of living with a group of children are great. At Camp KIPP DC, there are several quiet locations with Wi-Fi/telephone accessibility. There is also typically a fitness center on campus, several fast food restaurants within walking distance, a library, a bike path, and several hiking trails. Your free time is just that—yours.
What are the living accommodations like at Camp KIPP DC?
The living arrangements at camp will be dormitory style. Counselors will have a group of campers for whom they are responsible and will be living with throughout their stay at camp. We assure you that you will find your stay at camp quite comfortable.
In addition, team members may request to reside in gender-affinity housing with others who share their gender identity. In addition, gender-neutral bathroom spaces will be available in all dorms.
Please see our Gender Inclusive Policy for more information on how we strive to include all in the camp experience.
What is the salary?
Working at Camp KIPP DC is a low-expense experience, so the hope is that every team member will leave with their entire camp salary. Team salaries vary depending on position and are competitive with the salaries offered by similar, high-quality overnight camps. Team shirts and sweatshirts will be provided free of charge along with a laundry service in the middle of camp.
Does Camp KIPP DC have a religious affiliation?
No. Camp KIPP DC has no ties to any religion and we are accepting of all diversities, religious affiliations, and backgrounds.
Can you outline a typical day?
Each camp day is unique, but there is a good deal of regularity to the daily program. Below is an overview:
Following wake-up and breakfast, the camp comes together for Sunrise. At Sunrise, we do cheers, introduce the value of the day, make announcements, review the schedule and get excited for the day ahead!
After Sunrise, each group goes to three morning activities, including Discovery. Discovery activities are geared towards self-discovery through group activities and offer campers a chance to reflect on the value of the day and the experiences they are having. Using soccer as an example, you, as a soccer Activity Counselor, would report to the soccer fields to teach soccer. Each morning activity block—about one hour long—would see three separate camper groups until about noon. If you are a Group Counselor, you would travel with your group to each of their three assigned activities.
Following morning activities, there is lunch and "rest hour" or quiet time to relax, read, and spend time with campers.
After rest hour comes a fourth group activity, followed by electives. Electives are activity periods that allow campers to focus a single activity over three days and develop their skill set in that area. As a team member, you will either teach or assist in teaching an elective.
After electives, there is a brief wash-up and free period, followed by dinner.
After dinner, the whole camp comes together for Sunset, which includes a nightly awards ceremony, during which we recognize campers for their outstanding contributions throughout the day.
Sunset is followed by an evening activity, which will range from talent shows and sports tournaments to games and campfires.
Each day closes with some free dorm time before lights out.
While this represents a brief portrait, there is far too much going on to describe on paper. There will be hikes and excursions, exciting all-camp events, and fun and engaging activities for campers and team members to enjoy!
What about time off and free time?
We know for you to be an effective counselor you need to take time for yourself. We want you to be refreshed and invigorated. Therefore, team members are given days off in between sessions and nights off during the camp program.
Time off is determined and scheduled by the Program Director in conjunction with the Director of Camp KIPP DC. During the day, team members receive either a rest hour or a free period off each day. At that time, you may use any available facilities for recreation. Of course, you may opt to just read quietly or take a nap. Every other night, when you are on duty, you must stay with your group until they are asleep, then remain in camp "on duty" until 12:30 a.m. when the remainder of the counseling team who are "off" return to camp.
How "co-ed" is Camp KIPP DC?
All camp activities are co-ed and separated by age group except for electives which are comprised of boys and girls from all age groups.
What is your policy on drugs and alcohol?
As a reminder, the use or possession of drugs on or off camp property or the use of alcohol on camp property is strictly prohibited. Returning to work from time-off under the influence of drugs or alcohol is similarly prohibited. Please understand and evaluate your responsibilities now. If you are unwilling to abide by these regulations, please advise us and you will be released from your contract.
What is your tobacco policy?
Camp KIPP DC is a completely tobacco-free environment. There will be no opportunity to smoke, vape, or use any tobacco products at camp or near camp on your time off. Please be sure you understand this and come to camp prepared to live by this policy. If you cannot live by this policy, we will release you from your contract.
Can I bring portable sound equipment to camp?
Music is a big part of camp life. We have talent shows, campfires, and song competitions throughout the summer. If you have an instrument or portable sound equipment, bring it! We want you to share these talents with our camp family throughout the summer.
Can I use digital technology at camp?
We ask that you avoid using technology when you are with campers. Use of technology should be limited to contact the Senior Team, the Health Center, or Camp Director.
Is there WiFi at camp?
WiFi is available throughout camp.
How can someone reach me in an emergency?
Please advise anyone who may need to reach you in an emergency to call Camp Director Tony Wong at (202) 365-7225.
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.