2010 RVCS Summer Programs

This summer, we are glad to make the following Summer Programs available!  These have been created by our own RVCS Guides and offer opportunities for children (and their adult chaperones) to play, create and explore through the summer months. These are open to any child, not just RVCS, so let others know!

Click the link after each, for a PDF file with full details and application form.

Felting Camp
"Introduce your kids to the ancient craft of felting with raw wool!
"Ridge and Valley Charter School is offering a felting day camp this summer from August 9th to the 13th.  Felting is an ancient craft that is re-emerging in part as a movement to use sustainable local raw wool for artistic and practical purposes.  In just one week, campers will learn to transform raw wool into a unique handmade fabric that has many uses. 
"We’ll explore two felting techniques as we work on our craft projects:  wet felting and needle felting.  Campers will learn to felt ropes, balls, and felt around a rock.  In addition, they will get to work on a project of their choice, such as a scarf, belt, or wall hanging.  Campers will be taken through the design process, from gathering materials and layout, to sizing and finishing touches."
Presented by:  Guide Dena
For ages: Completed grades 3 through 8
.Five-Day Expedition: Backpacking the Appalachian Trail
"Experience the thrill of backpacking on the A.T. On a hiking trip with the world outdoors...experience the backcountry on foot where the sounds of a rippling stream in an otherwise silent forest, the rustle of leaves with the approach of a deer, or the sweet taste of just-ripened berries highlight the moment. With small groups and two guides, we allow for an intimate and unhurried way to experience nature's wonders. If you are interested in a wilderness adventure, backpacking along the Appalachian Trail, this is the course for you!
"These trips are for students completing grades 4 through 8 that are interested in a spending 5 days outdoors, backpacking on the Kittatinny Mountain Range. Participants will carry their own gear and camp along the trail. We will learn skills – backpacking, camping, cooking, and navigation with a map – and find opportunities for personal growth in leadership, relationships, and group problem solving."
Presented by:  Guide Cathy
For ages:  Completed grades 5 through 8
3-Day Expedition: Canoeing the Delaware River
"Are you looking for a unique experience with your child this summer? Come spend three days canoeing down the Delaware River. What a wonderful opportunity to learn together and connect with the nature. This trip is designed to teach skills- canoe and navigate the river, set up camp, cook delicious meals, and most importantly – make memories! The Delaware River offers wonderful opportunities for viewing wildlife- bald eagles, swans, great blue herons, turtles, and more. There will be opportunities for fishing, swimming, and exploring the land surrounding the river. 
"These trips are for students completing grades 4 through 8 and their parents or guardians that are interested in spending 3 days outdoors, discovering the Delaware River. Participants will carry their own gear and we will camp overnight along the river. No prior paddling or camping experience is necessary."
Presented by:  Guide Cathy
For ages:  Completed grades 4 through 8
Summer Excursions: Wilderness Day Trips
"If you are interested in wilderness adventure, hiking and canoeing, then we have some trips for you! We are offering 3 different Day Trips. Enjoy one or all three. Trips will include teambuilding, canoeing and hiking skills, and lots of fun! All three trips are open to students who have completed grades 3 through 7. See the dates and specific trips information!
We’ll spend the day outdoors, backpacking, canoeing, and learning teambuilding skills. Participants will carry their own gear and paddle their own canoes. We will learn skills – backpacking, camping, cooking, and navigation with a map – and find opportunities for personal growth in leadership, relationships, and group problem solving."

Presented by:  Guide Cathy
For ages: Completed grades 4 through 8

Click here for full details and application form

Little Ridge and Valley
"Busy hands and feet are needed for exploring, crafting, hiking and playing! Come enjoy a hands-on nature exploration program for pre-Kindergarten children and their families. The program will model the gentle rhythm of Ridge and Valley Charter School’s kindergarten classes that so lovingly nourish the child’s developing coordination, cooperation, and creativity. Each day we’ll explore a new beautiful place in nature: the natural open spaces and trails near our school and around the Paulinskill River. Our time together will be spent primarily outside in the beautiful summer sun with water play on and around the 16-acre facility of the Ridge and Valley Charter School campus."
Presented by:  Guide Ieva
For ages: Pre-Kindergarten kids, 3 to 5 years old