Summer learning and fun
SPHERE Summer Program
Watkinson’s SPHERE summer program (which stands for Supplementary Program for Hartford in Educational Reinforcement and Enrichment) is a nonprofit, five-week tutorial program for 60-70 Hartford and East Hartford youth entering grades 1-5 held on our gorgeous campus in Hartford, CT. The program will return in the summer of 2026, registration information will be available shortly.
The day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with lunch and morning/afternoon snack included.
Mission and Goals
SPHERE successfully integrates personalized hands-on education with enriching summertime recreation. The main goal of SPHERE is to extend learning beyond June to prepare students for September in a caring, fun, and creative environment. We do this by simultaneously addressing any learning gaps that exist, strengthening current academic and interpersonal skills, and building confidence through exposure to the upcoming grade’s content.
SPHERE classes are aligned with the Common Core State Standards in literacy and math. In addition, students receive science, art, and technology instruction. Our small classes provide personalized and culturally-relevant instruction that prepares the student for the upcoming school year.
Special Activities
- Camp-wide field trips
SPHERE talent show - Student-led Spirit Week
- Interest-based Discovery Clubs
- Kickstand Bike Program
- Special Guest Instructors (science, music, art)
- Classroom and Community Circle routines
- Surprise mystery readers and parent volunteers
Students are grouped according to grade level. Counselors and CIT’s (counselors-in-training) are assigned to each group and stay with that group for the duration of the summer program. This creates a setting for the students to take risks in a safe learning environment. The staff provides in-class assistance, encouragement, guidance and redirection to the students.
Thank you to our 2025 Funders
How to Apply
Your application is complete when you have submitted all of the following:
- Application form
- Teacher recommendation
- Health form (print/complete/scan/send)
- Registration fee: A non-refundable registration fee of $65 is required for the first child, and $40 for each additional child. These fees must be dropped off at the school. We accept money orders, checks payable to Watkinson School SPHERE Summer Program, or cash.
Application materials are also available upon request by emailing sphere@watkinson.org or by calling: 860-236-5618 ext. 156.
Applications for returning students have priority acceptance up to March 24, 2026.
After March 25th, if openings are available, new students will be accepted on rolling basis until the program is full. Only completed application packets will be considered.
**If there is no longer available space at the time that we receive your application, your money order will be refunded to you.
For more information please feel free to contact sphere@watkinson.org or 860-236-5618.
Employment Opportunities
We are looking for elementary school teachers and counselors who enjoy working with youth and are energetic and creative to join our staff this summer.
If you are interested in a teaching position, please consult Watkinson’s employment listings to read about our SPHERE Teaching opportunities.
To apply for the Full-time Elementary School First Aid Director for SPHERE Summer Program, the job description and contact info are here.
Applications for our Counselor Positions are below:
CIT (Counselor in Training) – Entering 9th and 10th grade
Counselor Application – Entering 11th or 12th grade or older
If you have any questions, please email sphere@watkinson.org
Support the SPHERE Summer Program
We rely on the generosity of our community to provide a high-quality experience during the program. There are three ways you can help:
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Shop our Amazon Wishlist: Purchase specific high-priority items (like sports gear and art supplies) and have them shipped directly to us.
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Donate Gently Used Items: We gratefully accept office supplies, sports equipment, and 1st–5th grade books in good condition. Drop-offs can be made at the Feringa building at Watkinson School.
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Make a Financial Gift: If you prefer to make a contribution to help fund our programming, please visit our Online Donation Portal for more information.