Programs
-
Adventure Bike Riding Camp:
Adventure Bike Riding Camp: Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
This camp is for advanced independent riders with stamina (no training wheels, able to start/stop/control speed independently). Participants will build bike endurance, skills and confidence through group rides and exploration of nearby neighborhoods and local roads throughout the city. Mileage and daily rides vary, but we always include visits to community friends like Fire/Police, outdoor yoga, parks and playgrounds, and an ice cream ride adventure! Campers will be expected to carry their own water and lunch in a backpack each day on their ride. *Option to rent a bike for an additional $50/week. If you bring your own bike it must be a geared bike with hand brakes. You must have a helmet. *Students will be riding off campus each day. Please note that this is a strenuous and active camp. Refunds will not be provided if your child is not able to maintain the demands of the program. Because campers leave campus each day and ride to various locations, please DO NOT schedule appointments during this week where your child would arrive late or be picked up early.
-
Adventure Bike Riding Camp:
Adventure Bike Riding Camp: Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
This camp is for advanced independent riders with stamina (no training wheels, able to start/stop/control speed independently). Participants will build bike endurance, skills and confidence through group rides and exploration of nearby neighborhoods and local roads throughout the city. Mileage and daily rides vary, but we always include visits to community friends like Fire/Police, outdoor yoga, parks and playgrounds, and an ice cream ride adventure! Campers will be expected to carry their own water and lunch in a backpack each day on their ride. *Option to rent a bike for an additional $50/week. If you bring your own bike it must be a geared bike with hand brakes. You must have a helmet. *Students will be riding off campus each day. Please note that this is a strenuous and active camp. Refunds will not be provided if your child is not able to maintain the demands of the program. Because campers leave campus each day and ride to various locations, please DO NOT schedule appointments during this week where your child would arrive late or be picked up early.
-
Adventure Bike Riding Camp:
Adventure Bike Riding Camp: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
This camp is for advanced independent riders with stamina (no training wheels, able to start/stop/control speed independently). Participants will build bike endurance, skills and confidence through group rides and exploration of nearby neighborhoods and local roads throughout the city. Mileage and daily rides vary, but we always include visits to community friends like Fire/Police, outdoor yoga, parks and playgrounds, and an ice cream ride adventure! Campers will be expected to carry their own water and lunch in a backpack each day on their ride. *Option to rent a bike for an additional $50/week. If you bring your own bike it must be a geared bike with hand brakes. You must have a helmet. *Students will be riding off campus each day. Please note that this is a strenuous and active camp. Refunds will not be provided if your child is not able to maintain the demands of the program. Because campers leave campus each day and ride to various locations, please DO NOT schedule appointments during this week where your child would arrive late or be picked up early.
-
Algebra 1 Review
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
This two-week review class is intended for high school students moving into Algebra 2 for the upcoming year. We will provide opportunities to practice algebraic concepts such as solving linear and quadratic equations, systems of equations, inequalities, and equations incorporating absolute value, functions, polynomials, exponents, graphing, and more. This program serves as a reinforcement of key concepts and foundational skills that will help students find success in their Algebra II class. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I.
-
An Insiders Guide to Politics in DC
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Service & Social Justice
An insider’s look at the people, policies, and debates currently dominating American politics. We will hear directly from the thought, policy, and political leaders who are setting the parameters of the debate, delve into the strategies they are using, and learn what they are doing to drive the debate forward. Students will either take field trips to locations in D.C. to meet with special guests or guests will come to GDS. Taught by GDS History Teacher Sue Ikenberry
-
Art Explorers
- Art,
- Day Camp
In this week-long art adventure for middle schoolers, campers will dive into their creativity. Campers will explore a variety of materials and processes, including painting, drawing, sculpting, and printmaking. Each day brings new opportunities to develop artistic skills, experiment with techniques, and bring imaginative ideas to life. Through hands-on projects, young artists will build confidence while discovering their unique creative voice. Get ready to explore, create, and have fun!
-
Camp SELF:
Camp SELF: Middle SchoolThis is a two week camp for middle school students.
-
Click and Create: Digital Photography for Teens & Beginners
- Art
Unleash your creativity and learn to capture the world through your lens. This week-long course introduces budding photographers to the art and technique of digital photography, including mastering camera settings and composing stunning shots. Dive into the world of photography to learn how to take and edit incredible photos right from both your smartphone and DSLR digital camera. Explore editing tools and techniques that bring your images to life, and discover the joy of turning digital memories into tangible prints. By the end of the week, you’ll have a portfolio of amazing photos to share and a new perspective on the world around you!
-
Comic Book Creation
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art,
- Writing
Love to read comics or graphic novels? Learn how to create your own in this fun class! Students will spend the morning half of the day reading several examples of comics and graphic novels and then they will learn how to draw and write one of their own! For the afternoon portion of each day students will have lunch and free time outdoors and then participate in activities such as arts and crafts, science experiments, simple cooking, games, etc.
-
Creative Photography & Yoga Camp:
Creative Photography and Yoga: Session 1- Art,
- Day Camp
*No camp on June 19th
-
Creative Photography & Yoga Camp:
Creative Photography and Yoga: Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art
This is a fun and impactful experience with hands-on learning! In the morning campers will go from the camera to the computer. Campers will create digital photography in Photoshop Express. Students master camera fundamentals: composition, exposure, light, etc. then transition to software and editing skills. Students leave with prints of their new honed talent. Inspire students to be storytellers and share their ideas through photos. In the afternoon, students will relax and enjoy a fun, easy yoga session. The children will practice various yoga poses while enjoying music and storytelling. Throughout the week, students will be invited to create their own yoga flows to tell their own stories. In addition, students will play interactive games and make creative arts and crafts that incorporate yoga themes and mindfulness. This could include making yoga cards, crafting nature mandalas, and yoga inspired games that encourage teamwork. This is the perfect way to allow your camper to close out the day after a busy morning of activities.
-
Creative Photography & Yoga Camp:
Creative Photography and Yoga: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art
This is a fun and impactful experience with hands-on learning! In the morning campers will go from the camera to the computer. Campers will create digital photography in Photoshop Express. Students master camera fundamentals: composition, exposure, light, etc. then transition to software and editing skills. Students leave with prints of their new honed talent. Inspire students to be storytellers and share their ideas through photos. In the afternoon, students will relax and enjoy a fun, easy yoga session. The children will practice various yoga poses while enjoying music and storytelling. Throughout the week, students will be invited to create their own yoga flows to tell their own stories. In addition, students will play interactive games and make creative arts and crafts that incorporate yoga themes and mindfulness. This could include making yoga cards, crafting nature mandalas, and yoga inspired games that encourage teamwork. This is the perfect way to allow your camper to close out the day after a busy morning of activities.
-
Creative Photography & Yoga Camp:
Creative Photography and Yoga: Session 4- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art
This is a fun and impactful experience with hands-on learning! In the morning campers will go from the camera to the computer. Campers will create digital photography in Photoshop Express. Students master camera fundamentals: composition, exposure, light, etc. then transition to software and editing skills. Students leave with prints of their new honed talent. Inspire students to be storytellers and share their ideas through photos. In the afternoon, students will relax and enjoy a fun, easy yoga session. The children will practice various yoga poses while enjoying music and storytelling. Throughout the week, students will be invited to create their own yoga flows to tell their own stories. In addition, students will play interactive games and make creative arts and crafts that incorporate yoga themes and mindfulness. This could include making yoga cards, crafting nature mandalas, and yoga inspired games that encourage teamwork. This is the perfect way to allow your camper to close out the day after a busy morning of activities.
-
Creative Photography & Yoga Camp:
Creative Photography and Yoga: Session 5- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art
This is a fun and impactful experience with hands-on learning! In the morning campers will go from the camera to the computer. Campers will create digital photography in Photoshop Express. Students master camera fundamentals: composition, exposure, light, etc. then transition to software and editing skills. Students leave with prints of their new honed talent. Inspire students to be storytellers and share their ideas through photos. In the afternoon, students will relax and enjoy a fun, easy yoga session. The children will practice various yoga poses while enjoying music and storytelling. Throughout the week, students will be invited to create their own yoga flows to tell their own stories. In addition, students will play interactive games and make creative arts and crafts that incorporate yoga themes and mindfulness. This could include making yoga cards, crafting nature mandalas, and yoga inspired games that encourage teamwork. This is the perfect way to allow your camper to close out the day after a busy morning of activities.
-
Creative Writing Camp
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Writing
Calling on aspiring young authors! The morning portion of this program is designed to allow students to develop their skills as fiction writers. Through reading sample stories, campers will develop an understanding of the structure and story in fiction and compare the techniques of various authors. They will use their knowledge to plan for and create their own stories that will include a developed character, a problem and solution, dialogue and details. During the afternoon portion of the day students will have lunch and free time outdoors as well as participate in activities such as art, science experiments, simple cooking, games, etc.
-
Dungeons and Dragons Camp
- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- STEM
Have you ever wanted to play the nationally-known game Dungeons and Dragons? Stretch your imagination telling stories with your friends, and build useful creative skills? What about playing the game they do in Stranger Things? Well this is your chance! In this class, we’ll be exploring collaborative storytelling through Dungeons and Dragons. Along the way, we’ll develop social and emotional skills that will serve us well outside of the RPG. Students will participate in the Dungeons and Dragons part of camp in the morning. The afternoon will consist of lunch, recess, and other camp games and activities.
-
Exploring Washington DC, History, People, Design, and Food
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports,
- Service & Social Justice
The history and design of Washington, DC are rich, layered, and nuanced, and the best way to learn about the city and region is to explore and experience it first hand. Join GDS DC history teacher Anthony Belber to take a close-up look at different neighborhoods in the Washington area. We’ll use a mini-bus, Metro, and our feet to move through a variety of locations, learning about their history, layout, current character, and even tasting what they have to offer. In addition to daily field trips there will also be some time spent in the classroom to study maps and to establish background knowledge and history before exploring each neighborhood.
-
Geometry
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
*If you are a current GDS 9th grader taking Algebra 1, please reach out to us directly about taking this class. The summer Geometry course will take place over 6 weeks. This is an accelerated semester-long course, which is challenging due to its fast pace. Students cannot miss more than 3 days or 9 hours of class time. This class will be graded as a pass or fail course. The minimum percentage to pass the course is 60%. There will be a midterm and a final exam. Course topics include logic and methods of reasoning, angle relationships, parallel and perpendicular lines, polygons, congruence, similarity, circles, right triangle trigonometry, volume, and area. The teacher for this course will provide a mid-semester progress report at the end of week three to all parents via email. There will be an end of course transcript with the final grade of pass or fail emailed to all parents. The teacher will also be available by email if there are any concerns or discussions needed by families. *If you are a non-GDS student and require a letter grade on your transcript, please be sure to request this by the first day of class and provide any contact information for your school. *NO CAMP ON JUNE 19 and JULY 4
-
The Thrills and Chills of Creative Writing:
Grades 4 – 6, Session 1- Academic & Study Skills,
- Writing
This is a two week program. Students will spend the morning portion participating in the writing camp and the afternoon will consist of lunch, recess, and fun camp activities such as games, challenges, experiments, arts and crafts, etc.
-
The Thrills and Chills of Creative Writing:
Grades 4 – 6, Session 2- Academic & Study Skills,
- Writing
This is a two week long class. Students will participate in the writing program in the morning and then for the afternoon portion they will have lunch, recess, and fun camp activities such as games, challenges, arts and crafts, etc.
-
The Thrills and Chills of Creative Writing:
Grades 7 – 9, Session 1- Academic & Study Skills,
- Writing
This is a two-week, afternoon class.
-
The Thrills and Chills of Creative Writing:
Grades 7-9, Session 2This is a two week, afternoon class.
-
Hacking and Cybersecurity: Grades 6-8
- Academic & Study Skills,
- STEM
Have you ever wanted to be a hacker? Or wanted to learn how to code? On the Internet these days, it’s important to understand how hackers work, so you can stay safe from them. In this specialty class, you will learn how to hack through fun coding (and code-breaking) games. You’ll learn about the three main methods hackers use, hack fake websites we set up, and learn how to stay safe online. Get ready to have fun breaking things! This is a great afternoon option for those who are taking a morning math class!
-
Introduction to 6th Grade Math
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
Using real-world applications and hands-on projects, this introduction to 6th grade math will help prepare students for the upcoming school year. We will provide opportunities to practice mathematical note-taking, and study skills and explore topics such as mathematical expressions, fractions, decimals, percents, estimation and more. This program serves as a reinforcement of key concepts and foundational skills that will help students find success in their 6th grade math class. *Note this class is not an acceleration class. Only students entering 6th grade in the fall will be permitted to take this course.
-
Introduction to 7th Grade Math
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
This introduction to 7th grade math and pre-algebraic concepts will help prepare students for some of the critical thinking required in 7th grade math. Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, we will provide opportunities to practice mathematical study and note-taking skills and explore arithmetic operations and topics that include equations, expressions, problem-solving methods, estimation, probability and more. This program serves as a reinforcement of key concepts and foundational skills that will help students find success in their 7th grade math class. *Note this class is not an acceleration class. Only students entering 7th grade in the fall will be permitted to take this course.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike: LEVEL 2:
Learn to Ride a Bike LEVEL 2: Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
*Please only sign up for this camp if your child can successfully ride a bike without training wheels! This new camp offering is designed for previous Learn to Ride camp attendees and other young riders who are riding independently but could use additional instruction and practice to improve confidence, skills, and safety awareness. Campers will spend the beginning of the week learning and practicing important skills including speed control, stopping, shifting gears, cornering and turning, ascending and descending hills, and riding in groups. As the week progresses, we’ll begin to venture off campus to practice riding as a group on nearby bike lanes, paths, and low-traffic neighborhoods. Students will participate in bike riding for half of the camp day; with the other portion of the day including lunch, free play outside, and other activities such as arts and crafts, games, and more. *IMPORTANT: Bike rentals are not included in the camp as we encourage riders to bring and use their own bikes.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike: LEVEL 2:
Learn to Ride a Bike LEVEL 2: Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
*Please only sign up for this camp if your child can successfully ride a bike without training wheels! This new camp offering is designed for previous Learn to Ride camp attendees and other young riders who are riding independently but could use additional instruction and practice to improve confidence, skills, and safety awareness. Campers will spend the beginning of the week learning and practicing important skills including speed control, stopping, shifting gears, cornering and turning, ascending and descending hills, and riding in groups. As the week progresses, we’ll begin to venture off campus to practice riding as a group on nearby bike lanes, paths, and low-traffic neighborhoods. Students will participate in bike riding for half of the camp day; with the other portion of the day including lunch, free play outside, and other activities such as arts and crafts, games, and more. *IMPORTANT: Bike rentals are not included in the camp as we encourage riders to bring and use their own bikes.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike: LEVEL 2:
Learn to Ride a Bike LEVEL 2: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
*Please only sign up for this camp if your child can successfully ride a bike without training wheels! This new camp offering is designed for previous Learn to Ride camp attendees and other young riders who are riding independently but could use additional instruction and practice to improve confidence, skills, and safety awareness. Campers will spend the beginning of the week learning and practicing important skills including speed control, stopping, shifting gears, cornering and turning, ascending and descending hills, and riding in groups. As the week progresses, we’ll begin to venture off campus to practice riding as a group on nearby bike lanes, paths, and low-traffic neighborhoods. Students will participate in bike riding for half of the camp day; with the other portion of the day including lunch, free play outside, and other activities such as arts and crafts, games, and more. *IMPORTANT: Bike rentals are not included in the camp as we encourage riders to bring and use their own bikes.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike: LEVEL 2:
Learn to Ride a Bike LEVEL 2: Session 4- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
*Please only sign up for this camp if your child can successfully ride a bike without training wheels! This new camp offering is designed for previous Learn to Ride camp attendees and other young riders who are riding independently but could use additional instruction and practice to improve confidence, skills, and safety awareness. Campers will spend the beginning of the week learning and practicing important skills including speed control, stopping, shifting gears, cornering and turning, ascending and descending hills, and riding in groups. As the week progresses, we’ll begin to venture off campus to practice riding as a group on nearby bike lanes, paths, and low-traffic neighborhoods. Students will participate in bike riding for half of the camp day; with the other portion of the day including lunch, free play outside, and other activities such as arts and crafts, games, and more. *IMPORTANT: Bike rentals are not included in the camp as we encourage riders to bring and use their own bikes.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
4 day week. No camp on June 19th. *Please only register for one session.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
*Please only register for one session.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
No camp on July 4 *Please only register for one session.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 4- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
*Please only register for one session.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 5- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
*Please only register for one session.
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 6- Day Camp,
- Extended Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
*Please only sign up for one session
-
Learn to Ride a Bike:
Learn to Ride a Bike: Session 7- Day Camp,
- Extended Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
Say goodbye to training wheels! Participants will learn to ride safely and confidently over the course of the camp week; first by mastering balancing and gliding, then will easily transition to riding independently. We’ll master starting/stopping, speed control, turning, steering, riding in groups and around obstacles and hazards, and learn basic traffic safety and bicycle maintenance. Even the most reluctant riders will be beaming by week’s end, encouraged by our expert instructors and caring staff, specialized equipment, and lots of practice through games and fun. Students will participate in bike riding lessons during one half of the day. The other half of the day students will have time for lunch, free play outside, and other activities such as arts and crafts, games, science experiments, and more. *Bike rentals are included in the cost of the camp! Instructors use specialized bikes to help campers learn to ride. If a camper would like to bring their own bike towards the end of the week, they are welcome to do so. *Please only sign up for ONE session. The purpose of this program is to learn to ride a bike in one week and signing up for more than one session will NOT be beneficial for your child. INSTEAD we encourage you to sign up for LEARN TO RIDE 2. This camp may be combined in back to back weeks or over the course of the summer. Riders will continue to build their skills and endurance on their own bikes in Learn to Ride 2 camp, and will take short daily adventures in the surrounding neighborhoods and park.
-
Lets Make It Work: Study Skills Camp
- Academic & Study Skills
As the workload in middle school/high school builds, so does the stress level to keep up and “make it work.” Self-management skills are increasingly important in a complex world with many distractions and competing priorities. LetsMakeitWork will teach students how to organize, plan, prioritize, manage time, maintain focus, self-assess, and study/work efficiently. *This is a great afternoon addition if your child is participating in a morning math class.
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
No camp on Thursday June 19
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This camp is designed for our youngest campers who are ready to spend the day learning and having fun! We recognize that this might be the first camp experience for our Little Hoppers. Through different play-based activities ranging from arts and crafts, drama, read alouds, active games, music, STEM, and more, children will develop friendships and skills designed to prepare them for school. School readiness skill-building will include various explorations, fine motor skills practice, and activities related to following directions, working with and listening to others, and more! *Students must be at least 4 years old to participate. There is no designated nap time. This program may not be the best fit for every child. Please reach out if you have concerns or questions.
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
No camp on July 4
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 4- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This camp is designed for our youngest campers who are ready to spend the day learning and having fun! We recognize that this might be the first camp experience for our Little Hoppers. Through different play-based activities ranging from arts and crafts, drama, read alouds, active games, music, STEM, and more, children will develop friendships and skills designed to prepare them for school. School readiness skill-building will include various explorations, fine motor skills practice, and activities related to following directions, working with and listening to others, and more! *Students must be at least 4 years old to participate. There is no designated nap time. This program may not be the best fit for every child. Please reach out if you have concerns or questions.
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 5- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This camp is designed for our youngest campers who are ready to spend the day learning and having fun! We recognize that this might be the first camp experience for our Little Hoppers. Through different play-based activities ranging from arts and crafts, drama, read alouds, active games, music, STEM, and more, children will develop friendships and skills designed to prepare them for school. School readiness skill-building will include various explorations, fine motor skills practice, and activities related to following directions, working with and listening to others, and more! *Students must be at least 4 years old to participate. There is no designated nap time. This program may not be the best fit for every child. Please reach out if you have concerns or questions.
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 6- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This camp is designed for our youngest campers who are ready to spend the day learning and having fun! We recognize that this might be the first camp experience for our Little Hoppers. Through different play-based activities ranging from arts and crafts, drama, read alouds, active games, music, STEM, and more, children will develop friendships and skills designed to prepare them for school. School readiness skill-building will include various explorations, fine motor skills practice, and activities related to following directions, working with and listening to others, and more! *Students must be at least 4 years old to participate. There is no designated nap time. This program may not be the best fit for every child. Please reach out if you have concerns or questions.
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 7- Art,
- Day Camp,
- Extended Care Offered
This camp is designed for our youngest campers who are ready to spend the day learning and having fun! We recognize that this might be the first camp experience for our Little Hoppers. Through different play-based activities ranging from arts and crafts, drama, read alouds, active games, music, STEM, and more, children will develop friendships and skills designed to prepare them for school. School readiness skill-building will include various explorations, fine motor skills practice, and activities related to following directions, working with and listening to others, and more! *Students must be at least 4 years old to participate. There is no designated nap time. This program may not be the best fit for every child. Please reach out if you have concerns or questions.
-
Little Hoppers Camp:
Little Hoppers Camp: Session 8- Art,
- Day Camp,
- Extended Care Offered
This camp is designed for our youngest campers who are ready to spend the day learning and having fun! We recognize that this might be the first camp experience for our Little Hoppers. Through different play-based activities ranging from arts and crafts, drama, read alouds, active games, music, STEM, and more, children will develop friendships and skills designed to prepare them for school. School readiness skill-building will include various explorations, fine motor skills practice, and activities related to following directions, working with and listening to others, and more! *Students must be at least 4 years old to participate. There is no designated nap time. This program may not be the best fit for every child. Please reach out if you have concerns or questions.
-
Lower School Math Workshop
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
The morning portion of this program includes innovative, hands-on and research-based math games and activities to reinforce and preview topics in upper-elementary math classes. Students in grades 3rd-5th will spend the week doing problem-solving activities that will develop mathematical skills and create a growth mindset in math, reinforcing concepts and topics that will enable students to find mathematical success in the new school year. Concepts covered may include base-ten numbers, fractions, data analysis, elementary geometry concepts, simple mathematical algorithms, mathematical reasoning, problem-solving and more! In the afternoon students will have lunch and free time outdoors, as well as participate in fun and engaging activities such as art, simple cooking, games, science experiments, and more.
-
Masterpiece Makers: Drawing, Painting & Exploration
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Art
Join us for a week-long course for 7th and 8th graders looking to sharpen their drawing and painting skills. Campers will start with drawing and painting from life, learning to observe and capture the world with accuracy. They’ll explore experimental 2D projects, pushing creative boundaries with new materials and techniques. This course blends skill-building with creative exploration, helping young artists develop their unique artistic voices. Perfect for those ready to take their art seriously—and have fun doing it!
-
Math Problem-Solvers Camp
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
No camp on Thursday, June 19th. This camp is specifically designed for kids looking for a challenge! For the morning portion of this program, students will learn problem-solving strategies, model and practice sample problems, then have the opportunity to work independently for some time, then come together to collaborate in teams to solve the problems, and finally come together as a whole group to compare and share solutions and convince each other that our answers are correct. For the afternoon portion of this program, students will have lunch and free time outside, as well as participate in fun activities such as art, science experiments, simple cooking, games, etc.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
No camp on July 4
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 4- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 5- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 6- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 7- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Mighty Hoppers Camp:
Mighty Hoppers Camp: Session 8- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is designed for our older hoppers in grades 3 and 4. Each week will have a different theme and activities will include games, art, cooking, challenges, and much more. Each week will also include a field trip to a location that matches the theme of the week. All activities will be hands on and engaging for kids to make new friends with their peers, gain new skills, and become confident and independent learners.
-
Nonfiction Reading, Writing, and Researching
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Writing
The morning part of this program will allow students to explore a range of nonfiction texts and learn to analyze and explain the material they read and translate what they have read into their own words. Students will also have an opportunity to work collaboratively as researchers in order to develop their skills as nonfiction writers. In the afternoon students will have lunch and free time outdoors as well as participate in fun activities such as art, science experiments, simple cooking, games, etc.
-
Outdoor Art Camp:
Outdoor Art Camp: Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
*NO Class on Thursday, June 19. Outdoor art creations class is designed to have children outside learning about nature while making art projects. Students will learn about birds, flowers, trees, the sun, insects, and much more!
-
Outdoor Art Camp:
Outdoor Art Camp: Session 2- Art,
- Day Camp,
- Extended Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
No camp on July 4th. Outdoor art creations class is designed to have children outside learning about nature while making art projects. Students will learn about birds, flowers, trees, the sun, insects, and much more!
-
Outdoor Art Camp:
Outdoor Art Camp: Session 3- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Art,
- Day Camp,
- Outdoors & Sports
Outdoor art creations class is designed to have children outside learning about nature while making art projects. Students will learn about birds, flowers, trees, the sun, insects, and much more! There will be activities done inside the classroom and outside.
-
Outdoor Art Camp:
Outdoor Art Camp: Session 4- Art,
- Day Camp,
- Extended Care Offered
Outdoor art creations class is designed to have children outside learning about nature while making art projects. Students will learn about birds, flowers, trees, the sun, insects, and much more! There will be activities done inside the classroom and outside.
-
Pre-Algebra Review
- Academic & Study Skills,
- Math
This two-week review class is intended for rising 8th and 9th grade students moving into Algebra 1 for the upcoming year. We will provide opportunities to practice pre-algebraic concepts such as variables, formulas, and algebraic expressions as well as key concepts for algebraic success such as equations, fractions, decimals, percents, exponents, ratios and more. This program serves as a reinforcement of key concepts and foundational skills that will help students find success in their Algebra I class. Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Algebra or Intro to Algebra.
-
Reading Comprehension and Oral Fluency
The purpose of this class is to enhance/improve oral reading and comprehension skills to rising 5th and 6th graders. There will be 2-4 lessons taught daily, and active participation will be encouraged, particularly for oral reading. The lessons will consist of short passages with follow-up activities. The focus of the passages will be: character traits and analysis, comparing/contrasting, drawing conclusions, finding the main idea, interpreting figurative language, making predictions, personification, sequencing, and using context clues. Students will participate in the reading portion of this program in the morning. The afternoon will consist of lunch, recess, and various camp activities such as games, arts and crafts, challenges, etc.
-
Hiking DC’s Regional Parks:
Session 1- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
Our outdoor Hiking Camp is designed for students to explore the opportunities for outdoor enrichment within and beyond the borders of our city. Through collaboration and personal challenge, students develop an understanding of the natural world around them. Our goal is to promote personal growth through exposure to new and exciting environments and situations, ultimately leading to an appreciation for what the outdoors have to offer. Emphasis will be on how to have fun safely in the woods. For this five-day camp, students will participate in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bouldering, playing in the water and Geocaching. All day-trips will be within a short drive of GDS and utilize the public spaces in the District, Maryland, and Virginia. No outdoor experience is necessary, but an open mind is a must! Participants will bring a bag lunch and water bottle each day. Locations and Activities: Sugarloaf Mountain—Geocaching and forest games Catoctin Mountain Park—”Bouldering” and creek-stomping Sandy Point State Park—service project and beach/swim time Part of Great Falls Billy Goat trail and cookout at Carderock Bull Run State Park *All locations and activities are subject to change based on weather, park condition, etc. Trips are rain or shine. However, if there is extreme weather expected for the whole day, students will do outdoor education activities on campus.
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 1: Communication- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
*No camp on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in observance of Juneteenth.
-
Hiking DC’s Regional Parks:
Session 2- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Outdoors & Sports
Our outdoor Hiking Camp is designed for students to explore the opportunities for outdoor enrichment within and beyond the borders of our city. Through collaboration and personal challenge, students develop an understanding of the natural world around them. Our goal is to promote personal growth through exposure to new and exciting environments and situations, ultimately leading to an appreciation for what the outdoors have to offer. Emphasis will be on how to have fun safely in the woods. For this five-day camp, students will participate in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bouldering, playing in the water and Geocaching. All day-trips will be within a short drive of GDS and utilize the public spaces in the District, Maryland, and Virginia. No outdoor experience is necessary, but an open mind is a must! Participants will bring a bag lunch and water bottle each day. Locations and Activities: Sugarloaf Mountain—Geocaching and forest games Catoctin Mountain Park—”Bouldering” and creek-stomping Sandy Point State Park—service project and beach/swim time Part of Great Falls Billy Goat trail and cookout at Carderock Bull Run State Park *All locations and activities are subject to change based on weather, park condition, etc. Trips are rain or shine. However, if there is extreme weather expected for the whole day, students will do outdoor education activities on campus.
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 2: Transportation- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is about creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each day, students will be given a challenge to address. Through a variety of activities and exercises, students will stretch their brains as they develop their 21st century skills. Students will learn how to learn from failure, explore the ideas of peers, brainstorm, and more! This camp is designed for students in 1st and 2nd grade. There will be a field trip each week!
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 3: Arts & Crafts- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp,
- Morning Care Offered
No camp on July 4
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 4: Houses- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is about creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each day, students will be given a challenge to address. Through a variety of activities and exercises, students will stretch their brains as they develop their 21st century skills. Students will learn how to learn from failure, explore the ideas of peers, brainstorm, and more! This camp is designed for students in 1st and 2nd grade. There will be a field trip each week!
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 5: Environment- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is about creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each day, students will be given a challenge to address. Through a variety of activities and exercises, students will stretch their brains as they develop their 21st century skills. Students will learn how to learn from failure, explore the ideas of peers, brainstorm, and more! This camp is designed for students in 1st and 2nd grade. There will be a field trip each week!
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 6: Playgrounds- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is about creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each day, students will be given a challenge to address. Through a variety of activities and exercises, students will stretch their brains as they develop their 21st century skills. Students will learn how to learn from failure, explore the ideas of peers, brainstorm, and more! This camp is designed for students in 1st and 2nd grade. There will be a field trip each week!
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 7: Water- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is about creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each day, students will be given a challenge to address. Through a variety of activities and exercises, students will stretch their brains as they develop their 21st century skills. Students will learn how to learn from failure, explore the ideas of peers, brainstorm, and more! This camp is designed for students in 1st and 2nd grade. There will be a field trip each week!
-
Creative Challenges Day Camp:
Session 8: Food- Afternoon Care Offered,
- Day Camp
This day camp is about creativity, problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each day, students will be given a challenge to address. Through a variety of activities and exercises, students will stretch their brains as they develop their 21st century skills. Students will learn how to learn from failure, explore the ideas of peers, brainstorm, and more! This camp is designed for students in 1st and 2nd grade. There will be a field trip each week!
-
Yay Clay! Functional Pottery Camp
- Art
Join us in the studio to learn about the exciting world of wheel-thrown pottery! Guided every step of the way, campers will learn to make functional works of art like plates, bowls, mugs, vases, and more. Along with plenty of hands-on time in the studio, we’ll take a field trip to explore inspiring ceramic art around DC and learn how clay comes to life outside of the studio. At the end of the week, campers will paint, decorate, and glaze their masterpieces, which will be ready for pick-up the following week. This camp is perfect for creative kids who love to make with their hands, explore new skills, and collaborate with others. No prior pottery experience needed—just bring your imagination and get ready to play with clay!