The Magic of Collaboration: How Exceptional Instructors and Innovative Ideas Shape Camp KO

At Camp KO, our success isn’t just about offering exciting programs—it’s about the people and ideas behind them. Our exceptional instructors and their innovative program concepts create transformative experiences for our campers each summer. Here’s how we discover and collaborate with talented individuals to bring fresh, inspiring offerings to life.

1. Tapping into Our Kingswood Oxford Community

We’re incredibly fortunate to have Kingswood Oxford School as the foundation of our talent pool. Around 80% of our lead instructors come from this vibrant community of teachers and coaches. Each October, we send out a call for new programs and instructors, encouraging faculty to share their hidden talents and passions.

Many instructors bring skills beyond their classrooms, enriching our camp offerings with unique perspectives. For example:

• Graham Hegeman, a science teacher and outdoor enthusiast, integrates biology and wilderness survival skills in his camp sessions, teaching campers how to make fires or fish using homemade lures.

• Kristen Valenti, an avid hiker, channels her love for the outdoors into her All-Girl Hiking Camp, which focuses on building leadership skills and empowering young women to tackle challenges together.

This deep connection to our school community ensures that our programs are led by individuals who genuinely care about teaching and inspiring young people.

2. Learning from National Networks

Each year, we attend the Summer Programs and Auxiliary Revenue Collaborative (SPARC) Conference, where we connect with directors across the country to discover emerging trends in summer camp programming. These insights help us innovate and introduce exciting new offerings that reflect what kids are eager to explore.

3. Building Local Connections

Our local community is another vital source of talent and inspiration. Through networking and word of mouth, we’ve found incredible instructors who bring unique expertise to Camp KO:

• Terry Walters, a celebrated chef and clean food activist, joined us after hosting a culinary workshop attended by our camp director. She has led culinary courses that teach campers the importance of natural ingredients while creating delicious, healthy snacks.

• Madison Fournier, the owner and director of the Enfield Fencing Club, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. She is currently training in Paris to be prepared for the World Championships this summer.

Even parents of campers have contributed, offering to run programs in areas they’re passionate about, further enriching the diversity of our offerings.

4. Spotting Hidden Gems

Sometimes, it’s about keeping your eyes open for talent in unexpected places. Our camp director often meets fascinating individuals at local events and proactively invites them to join Camp KO. This broad, open-minded approach allows us to connect with people who are not only skilled but deeply passionate about what they do.

A Recipe for Success

The magic of collaboration at Camp KO stems from our ability to spot talented people doing what they love and invite them to share that passion with our campers. When you have instructors who are not only experts in their field but also enthusiastic about inspiring others, you create an environment where campers thrive.

At Camp KO, every program reflects the unique talents and passions of our instructors, and that’s what makes our camp truly special. This spirit of collaboration ensures each summer is filled with discovery, growth, and unforgettable experiences.

To request a mailed brochure, please email Camp Director Sheri Shea with you name and mailing address. We look forward to hearing from you!