Campers say: 

"Humanities Camp rocks!"

Humanities Camps

Summer Day Camps for Middle Schoolers

Every summer VHC sponsors an exciting summer literacy program for middle school/junior high students. Humanities Camps are week-long, thematic day camps with lots of reading, discussion, and fun, humanities-related activities.

Up to two hundred children in Vermont public schools read, share ideas, and engage in creative activities around interesting themes. The goal of Humanities Camps is to use literature as a door to a broader world for children who have not had opportunities for these experiences.

Students most in need of the individual attention, encouragement, support with reading and writing skills, and opportunities for growth are invited to attend by teachers, administrators, and school professionals.

Humanities Camps have run since 1997. VHC annually invites any Vermont public school with grades 7 and 8 to apply for a Humanities Camp. VHC awards grants to schools, and two school staff create the curriculum around sets of books provided by VHC. The camp is free to students.

The camps involve these children in the world of literature and ideas, fostering self-expression and confidence in a safe, nurturing environment. Humanities camps encourage kids to think critically about the world around them. Students experience the satisfaction that accompanies insight and self-discovery, while developing reading skills and a love of learning.

If you are interested in bringing a Humanities Camp to your school, contact your Principal or Director of Literacy Programs Jan Steinbauer via e-mail (jsteinbauer@vermonthumanities.org) or phone: 802.262.2626 x 310

Participating Schools 2012

Photos: Humanities campers from Milton Middle/High School listen to Thea Lewis of Queen City Ghost Tours as part of their It's a Mystery camp in 2010. Students at the A.D. Lawton School in Essex Junction explored their heritage during the Many Faces of US camp.