Longtime camp presenter Mark Brogie explains the rules of his session “It’s a Newton.” Brogie has been involved with SCORE since 1989 and originally helped launch the program. (Johnson Publications photo)
Kim Spady, one of the SCORE coordinators, teaches the third and fourth graders “Super Hero Surprise,” a game that was played during lunch break on Friday, the final day of camp. (Johnson Publications photo)
SCORE camp has come, gone in a flash
And just like that, Science Camps Offer Rewarding Experiences (SCORE) camp has come and gone in a flash!
This past week, swarms of students filled Champion Lake, Cox’s Ponds, the Youth Memorial Park and the Chase County fairgrounds all with the same intention—have fun.
Who knew a person could have fun and learn at the same time? Probably the majority of parents, but especially SCORE coordinators Kim Spady, Charlesa Kline and Chris Tomky.
With 24 different presenters teaching anything and everything from archery fundamentals to the ins and outs of drones, it is safe to say 330 students gleaned a wide variety of information.
Other than a couple of windy days, SCORE camp could not have experienced better weather.
“We never ran out of snacks, and the weather was great,” said Kline.
One of the main concerns was a lack of volunteers, something a camp of this size greatly needed. However, the community pulled through and went above and beyond expectations offering kayaks, silverware and anything else that was needed.
“Our staff went above and beyond and the community, anytime we asked people said ‘yes.’ You could not have SCORE without the staff and this community,” said Kline.
According to Kline, the camp had more highlights than low points and many of the presenters have already sent emails requesting to come back for the next camp in 2019.
“Everyone always loves the animals, and I think the drones were some of students’ favorite,” said Kline.
SCORE camp is funded through the Chase County Schools Education Foundation with cooperation from Chase Ccunty Schools (CCS) and by grants, donations and student tuition.