"Summer learning loss in the elementary school years alone 

accounts for at least half of the ninth grade reading achievement gap.  

High-quality summer learning programs have been shown 

to also improve school attachment, 

motivation, and relationships with adults and peers."

(Boss and Railsback, 2002; McLaughlin and Pitcock 2009; Beckett, 2008)

Quick story:  When I was a kid, my favorite subjects were math and reading.  I had always done well in those subjects and had opportunities along the way to help my peers.  When I took Calculus 1 in high school, that was the 1st time I had ever struggled with math, and it really sucked !! I began to hate math!  Just like that, my love of learning had been deflated.  Sound familiar?  BUT, I just so happened to have one of the best teachers that  I've ever had in my life! His name was Doug (yes he allowed us to call him by is 1st name but that's another story for another day lol).  Doug was patient and kind with all of his students.  But what I remember most was the time that he would take to explain problems in detail.  What a world of difference that made!  I honestly don't remember learning anything from the textbook that semester, but what I do remember is how he had a gift of tailoring his instruction to what our class needed.  He would create practice problems when we needed it, and he always allowed us time to ask questions.  He was innovate.  Thanks to him, I was able to pass my Calculus 1 class with an A+ !! Doug also helped to reignite my love for learning by not allowing me to give up!!    I'm not sharing this story to brag, but because I really want you to know my 'why' I do this (camp).  I want to make a difference that transcends many levels.