8th AND 9th GRADE PROGRAMS
Our CIT (Counselor in Training) programs are the final steps for our campers before becoming eligible to join the staff as Junior Counselors. This program provides a tremendous learning situation for young teens as they assist and share experiences with our Senior Counselors. There are options for participation in regular camp activities and experience some off-campus trips. This program is open to children who are 13 (going into 8th grade) and 14 years of age (going into 9th grade) See options below for details.
PART-TIME CIT (ENTERING 8th GRADE ONLY)
This “in training” program is designed for the camper who is beginning to learn how to work with children. A CIT must come to camp with a real interest in taking on the additional responsibility of being an integral part of the counselor team. Part-time CITs will spend half their time assigned to assist with a group or at a specialty, and half their time following a camper-style schedule.
PT CITs will alternate weeks between following a camper schedule and being assigned to a Group or Specialty. During their Camp schedule weeks, they will take part in camp activities. During their assigned weeks, they will help in either a group or a specialist activity. These placements will be based upon the CIT’s requests. All PT CITs will have daily training opportunities as a whole group, whether they are a camper that week, or assigned. Counselor staff will provide support and training to facilitate their transition from a camper to staff mentality.
In order to give the CIT a variety of experiences, their assignment will change throughout the summer. CITs will be formally evaluated by the Senior Staff with whom they are working, as well as the CIT staff. The evaluation process will determine (1) whether the CIT has made a commitment to the training program or whether the CIT would be better served in the Super Senior program, and (2) if they would be recommended to join the Full-time CIT program in their second year (see description below). All part-time CITs are eligible for the Upper Camp day trips and the 3-day CIT trip, but must be enrolled the week of the trip to attend.
FULL-TIME CIT (ENTERING 9th GRADE ONLY)
This program is designed for the camper who has shown a high level of maturity and judgment, together with a strong interest in working with children. Although still considered a staff “in training”, this CIT will be permanently assigned to assist all day throughout the season with a group or at a specialty. This program is a tremendous learning experience for the 14-year-old who may wish to work at Elbow Lane in the future. All full-time CITs are eligible for the Upper Camp day trips and the 3-day CIT trip, but must be enrolled the week of the trip to attend.
To be considered for a Junior Counselor position the following summer, those entering 9th grade must choose this full-time option and attend a minimum of 4 weeks (5 days per week) or 5 weeks (5 days per week) for those enrolled for the trip week. Full-time CITs will receive a 1/3 tuition discount. In addition, they will be paid a stipend of $100 for an 8-week commitment. Those enrolled less than 8 weeks will receive a stipend pro-rated for the number of weeks enrolled. Full-time CITs are invited to attend a staff orientation Saturday morning, June 11th. Details will follow.
Super Senior Program (ENTERING 8th OR 9th GRADE)
This program is designed for teens, 13 and 14 years old, who would prefer to take part in regular camp activities throughout the day, as opposed to working with campers. The Super Seniors are not considered CITs. This program is essentially a camper schedule, offering the same exciting activities enjoyed throughout camp. There is limited availability for this program. The Super Senior program runs all eight weeks. Super Seniors are only eligible for Upper Camp day trips, but must be enrolled the week of the trip to attend.
TRIPS
Off-campus trips and special events are also included in the 8th and 9th grade programs. See Camp Calendar for Upper Camp and CIT trips. Directors reserve the right to remove from eligibility any Super Senior/CIT who does not demonstrate the ability to be a responsible member of the group and show good judgment when working independently.
Note: In order to participate in the “3-day” trip, CITs must be enrolled for a minimum of 24 days, otherwise an additional fee will be charged for the trip.