We are currently reviewing our COVID-19 vaccination and testing policies for summer 2023. Information regarding final policies and protocols will be shared soon.

COVID-19 Information - Summer 2022

INTRODUCTION

We are extremely excited about summer 2022. This manual, Change Summer Safely, is a resource guide for families as we prepare for camp. 

Change Summer Safely is based on information we have gathered from our previous experience (we operated two camps in summer 2021 with great success and extremely limited medical issues) as well as guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, various state-based Departments of Health, the American Camp Association, and our medical team. It explains our plans for preparing, opening, and running camp safely. These plans are based on three key components for responsibly operating a camp during the pandemic: 

  1. Adequate health screening and monitoring; 

  2. Vigilant hygiene practices; 

  3. Responsible programming, with an emphasis on being outside.

Virus variants and infection rates, among other factors, may lead to deviations from what is described here; however, this is our baseline plan. Because of the fluidity of the camp program, we will only communicate changes from what we present here if necessary and appropriate.

COVID-19 VACCINATION POLICY

COVID-19 vaccinations are available to everyone of camp age. In a dense, highly populated setting like ours, there is more risk of exposure and spread. Therefore, please understand:  

  • We are requiring all campers and team members to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

  • Additionally, campers 12 and up as well as all team members must be vaccinated to the fullest extent possible (i.e., if eligible for a booster shot, they should get a booster shot).

  • We will consider religious and medical exemptions on a case-by-case basis.

We believe these steps will help maximize our ability to have as normal a summer as possible. There will be an opportunity to upload the camper’s Proof of Vaccination in the Camper Health History Form in your CampMinder account. 

Where to get vaccinated?

Click here and enter your Zip Code to find a COVID-19 Vaccine or Booster Appointment near you.

HEALTH AND SCREENING

Pre-Camp Screening and Testing

Change Summer Safely begins with staying safe at home before arriving at camp. We ask that all our campers be cautious about any contact outside the home during the week prior to arrival. 

The COVID-19 testing landscape, quite literally, changes daily. The following is our baseline plan at this time. 

Pre-Camp

  • All campers must obtain a COVID-19 test 3-5 days prior to camp (either a PCR or Rapid Antigen test is acceptable).  Campers must bring documentation of their negative test result in order to board the bus for camp.  Test results can also be uploaded directly into the Health History Form in your CampMinder account. 

  • If campers develop symptoms after their test, they should immediately contact their Camp Director and consult with a healthcare provider to obtain an additional COVID-19 test.

During Camp

Arrival to Camp

We will likely test all campers and team members upon their arrival to camp.

Symptomatic Camper

  • Regardless of vaccination status or prior COVID infection, any symptomatic individual will take a Rapid Antigen test following assessment by the Health Center team.   

    • If a camper tests positive, they will immediately isolate; the camp will discuss with the campers’ family about next steps, including the possibility of the camper going home. 

      • Close contacts who have been vaccinated or with a lab-confirmed COVID-19 infection within the prior 90 days will not be required to quarantine. 

      • Close contacts who are not vaccinated due to an exemption will immediately isolate; the camp will discuss with the campers’ family about next steps, including the possibility of the camper going home.

    • If the camper is negative, they will remain in the Health Center until their symptoms subside.

COMMUNICATION

Throughout the summer, we will send recurring updates on the general health of campers at camp, including any confirmed COVID-19 cases. We will not share any names or identifying information regarding the medical information of any person. We are required to notify state and local health officials of any confirmed positive test.

TRAVEL TO CAMP

BUS TRIP PROCEDURES

For a camper to board the bus, we must have a confirmed negative result from the pre-camp COVID test. As of now, we are not requiring campers to wear masks on buses; however, this is subject to change. 

The following protocols have been implemented by our private charter bus company:

  • Drivers will be vaccinated.

  • The buses will be sanitized before camp use.

  • All buses will have a hand sanitizer dispenser on the door.

DROP-OFF PROCEDURES

If you choose to drive your camper to camp via car, we must have a confirmed negative result from the pre-camp COVID test before the camper can exit your vehicle. 

PROGRAM & ACTIVITIES: THE CAMP DAY

CAMPER ORIENTATION

Opening day at camp always includes a welcome meeting with the Camp Director to introduce campers to key team members, general camp rules, and important operational guidelines. This summer, the following items will also be communicated:

  • What camp is doing to protect everyone’s health

  • Hand washing protocols

  • What symptoms to look out for and when to report them to the Health Center

OUT-OF-CAMP TRIPS

In summer 2022, we are eager to offer out-of-camp field trips. We will take all necessary medical precautions when it comes to being away from camp. We are researching safe options that do not include large crowds.

TEAM

TEAM MEMBER PREPARATION

Our team will receive additional training during Orientation on hygiene, adjusted camp protocols, our Communicable Disease Plan, their role in monitoring symptoms, and expectations for responsibly adhering to these guidelines.  All team members are required to be vaccinated to the fullest extent possible (i.e., if eligible for a booster shot, they should get a booster shot).

Per normal camp procedures and American Camp Association Standards, team members will still have off 1 day and ~2 nights per week. Our counselors will be able to leave camp during their time off unless they are unvaccinated with an exemption. We encourage team members to explore safe options that do not include large crowds. 

CONCLUSION

Three years ago was a normal summer. Two years ago – during the first summer of the pandemic – our camps did not open in-person. Last year, we were thrilled to provide campers with a fairly normal summer between disruptive and challenging school years.

We are beyond excited for summer 2022. While COVID-19 is still with us, we are very confident in our ability to manage it, prevent community spread, and ensure a healthy, safe summer.  

We will continue to think creatively and responsibly, working tirelessly to make this season celebratory and positive for our campers and team. As the weeks unfold, we will continue to respond. We appreciate your partnership and understanding as we make the necessary decisions for the upcoming season. We remain ever grateful for your trust.

Get ready for a safe and celebratory summer. We cannot wait to see you at camp soon!