West Pender, NC — Last week, West Pender Middle School transformed into a hub of literary exploration and excitement as it hosted the highly anticipated "Story Seekers Summer Camp." From June 10th to June 13th, 2024, 6th, 7th, and 8th graders embarked on a remarkable journey that ignited their passion for reading and provided a unique and enriching experience.
The Story Seekers Summer Camp, part of the WPMS Summer Bridge program, was designed to immerse students in the world of literature through engaging book club-style discussions and activities. Each day, from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, students delved into captivating stories, forming small groups led by dedicated teachers. These groups dissected characters, unraveled plots, and grappled with complex dilemmas, all while fostering a love for reading.
A Relaxed and Risk-Free Learning Environment
One of the key factors contributing to the camp's success was the relaxed and risk-free learning environment it provided. Students felt at ease and were able to enjoy reading without the pressure of traditional classroom settings. This approach made reading fun and accessible, encouraging students to view it as an adventure rather than a chore.
Experiencing Middle School and Making Friends
For rising 6th graders, the camp offered a valuable opportunity to experience middle school life and make new friends before the start of the academic year. This early exposure helped ease the transition to middle school, allowing students to feel more comfortable and confident in their new environment.
Overcoming Adversity Through Literature
The camp's theme, "Overcoming Adversity," resonated deeply with students. On the first day, they selected books aligned with this theme, forming book clubs with peers who shared their interests. This shared focus on overcoming challenges through literature fostered meaningful connections and discussions among students.
Enriching Field Trips and Interactive Presentations
The camp extended beyond the classroom with enriching field trips and interactive presentations. Students visited the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital, where they learned about sea turtle conservation and the efforts to rehabilitate sick and injured turtles. They also enjoyed a presentation from colonial-dressed presenters from Tryon Palace, who shared North Carolina's rich history and demonstrated historical tools and techniques.
Building Relationships and Nurturing Curiosity
Throughout the camp, students had ample opportunities to build relationships with their peers and teachers. They read in various settings, from tents and camping chairs to picnic tables and bean bags, and explored different reading formats, including group reading, partner reading, audio-books, and independent reading. This variety nurtured their natural curiosity and encouraged them to ask questions and delve deeper into their books.
Celebrating Accomplishments and Encouraging Continued Reading
By the end of the four-day camp, 40 WPMS students had completed an entire novel—a remarkable achievement considering it was only the second week of summer break. To celebrate their accomplishments and the relationships they had built, the camp concluded with a special celebration. Each student received two new books to take home, encouraging them to continue nurturing their love for reading by starting their own book clubs with friends or family members.
Acknowledging Key Contributions
A special acknowledgment goes to Cassidy Miller, a dedicated 6th-grade teacher, who stepped in as the teacher leader and played a crucial role in organizing and coordinating the camp. Her leadership and commitment to fostering a love for reading among students were instrumental in making the camp a success.
The Story Seekers Summer Camp was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated. As we look forward to the next edition, we remain committed to transforming ordinary summers into extraordinary journeys of imagination and discovery.
Watch the short video attached to this news article to see and hear more from our Story Seekers Summer Camp!
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