by Harrison Richman, University of Hartford Communications Intern
Watkinson’s SPHERE Summer Program is entering its 47th summer with the goal of helping Hartford elementary students discover that learning can be achieved through varied creative and recreational activities. Each summer, Watkinson School enrolls 80-90 Hartford children, grades 1-5, in SPHERE and gives them a chance at a more focused and seasonal-based education program at Watkinson’s 40-acre Hartford campus.
The five-week program consists of academic activities such as weekly trips to the 4-H education center, and special guest readers among classes that align with Common Core State Standards consisting of literacy, math, science, reading, art, physical education, and computers. In addition to the knowledge-based tasks, students will be able to partake in seasonal activities including the Sphere Olympics, picnics, and sprinkler Fridays.
Having the program tied in with Watkinson means our private school students can be involved too. Watkinson students in 11th and 12th grade may apply to be counselors, while 9th and 10th-grade students may apply to be counselors in training or CITs. The SPHERE program not only gives children a chance at a better education but ALSO helps young adults in the Watkinson community learn what it takes to lead a group first-hand.
Returning campers/students have an application deadline date of March 10th, 2019. While new campers/students have an application deadline of May 22nd, 2019. The Watkinson SPHERE program is a special and invaluable program for both the prospective counselor and the prospective student.
