History of Kids for Camp

2. History of Kids for Camp • Kids for Camp was started in 2003 by Judy Burns, a parent of a child with autism. • In 2007, Kids for Camp became a Summer Learning Lab, training educators in best practices for working with children with autism, as well as providing a summer educational program for individuals with autism, ages 3-22. • To date, we have provided training for over 140 educators from Escambia and Santa Rosa County Schools. • Since 2007, we have served over 200 children and teens with autism through our program.

3. What is Kids for Camp? • An intensive educational opportunity for skills acquisition and positive behavior support from highly trained teachers. • Campers work on their assessed individual needs in both classroom and community settings while having fun with friends.

4. Where is Kids for Camp? IN ESCAMBIA AND SANTA ROSA COUNTIES! • Elementary campuses • Bennett Russell Elementary (Milton) • Holm Elementary (Pensacola) • Teen campuses • Avalon Middle School (Milton) • Washington High School (Pensacola)

5. When is Kids for Camp? • Kids for Camp 2013 will run from July 8 through August 2 • Camp hours will be Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. through 2:30 p.m.

6. Who does Kids for Camp serve? • Elementary campuses • Age 3 – 5th grade • All classes will be working on language-based skills • Teen campuses • 6th grade – age 22 • Teens who are working on language, social, and/or job skills

7. Let’s All Play • Grant from the National Inclusion Project • UWF’s EXPLORE camps and the Pullum YMCA in Navarre are partnering with us. • Winter training will be offered to community organizations.

8. Kids for Camp Includes: • Assessment of new campers prior to start of camp • Individualized targets for each camper • Appropriate supports for each camper, based on need • Opportunities for parents to receive training • Job Transition Program (JTP) for ages 16 – 22 • Typical siblings and friends program • Teen volunteer opportunities • Extended care before and after camp

9. Admissions Criteria • Admissions criteria includes but is not limited to: • Current paid membership in API • Reside in Escambia or Santa Rosa Counties (with few exceptions) • Verifiable diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder • Be between the ages of 3 – 22 • Have ability to pay tuition or qualify for financial aid • Be an active API volunteer • Support API fundraisers

10. API Membership • Membership in API is required to apply for Kids for Camp • Applications received from non-members or past-due members will not be considered for acceptance • To check your status, email bookkeeper@autismpensacola.org

11. Application Process • Open application period runs from Jan. 22 – Feb. 22, 2013 • ALL requested paperwork isrequired • Applications submitted without all required paperwork will be considered incomplete and will not be considered for acceptance • This includes current paid membership in API and a nonrefundable $25 application fee

12. Financial Aid • Residents of Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties receive a discount donated by our generous community • To apply for further financial aid, submit required documentation showing financial need with your application • If this documentation is not submitted with your application, we will assume you plan to pay full tuition

13. The front page of your most recent tax return is the preferred documentation for showing financial need. • (2011 or 2012)

14. Assessments • All first-time campers accepted into Kids for Camp will be scheduled for a mini skills assessment in the spring • Parents are responsible for making sure their child attends their scheduled session • Parents will receive a summary of the assessment • Staff leadership may contact all parents for additional information, if necessary

15. Enrollment Process • You will be notified in March via US Mail of your acceptance status • Enrollment paperwork must be completed and submitted no later than April 1

16. Payments • Application fees are due when applications are submitted • Tuition must be paid in full prior to the start of camp • Tuition payments are due on May 15 and June15 • Extended care fees and typical siblings fees are due as noted on individual applications

17. Parental Responsibilities • Submit all paperwork and payments by deadline. • Attend parent orientation session in May • Complete a minimum of 10 hours volunteer time for API • Maintain communication with teachers during camp • Complete BOTH parent surveys following camp

18. We are looking forward to another terrific summer at Kids for Camp! We hope you choose to join us! For more information please email camp@autismpensacola.org or call 434-7171 x260.