Garden City SCOPE summer camp celebrates successful 

2026 program at Garden City Middle School

SCOPE Education Services concluded another successful Summer Enrichment Program at Garden City Middle School, held July 6–31. This year’s program celebrated America’s 250th anniversary and combined themes of curiosity, creativity, perseverance, opportunity and community throughout a month of engaging educational experiences.

A total of 978 students participated in more than 2,400 course enrollments across academic, STEM, arts, fitness, culinary, theater and orchestra offerings. Participants selected an enrichment category, allowing them to explore new interests while continuing to learn in a supportive, hands-on environment led by certified teachers and volunteers.

In STEM classes, students engaged with hands-on engineering challenges, including building and testing LEGO structures, designing simple machines and applying the engineering design process to solve real-world problems. A highlight of the program was the annual rocket launch, where they designed, constructed and launched model rockets while learning about aerodynamics, force and motion.

In visual arts, students explored a variety of creative techniques, including painting, drawing and clay sculpting. Younger learners focused on foundational art skills and color exploration, while older students worked on more detailed projects that emphasized design and storytelling. Culinary classes provided hands-on experience in basic cooking and food preparation. Younger students created simple, fun recipes such as ice cream sundaes and decorated treats, while older students learned kitchen safety, measurement skills and baking techniques through activities like cookie baking and simple recipe creation.

Fitness and recreation classes encouraged students to stay active through structured games, movement activities and team-based challenges. Academic enrichment classes supported continued learning in reading, writing and mathematics through engaging, hands-on lessons. Teachers incorporated games and group activities to reinforce key skills while keeping students motivated and engaged throughout the summer months.

In performing arts, theater students worked together to rehearse and produce a culminating performance inspired by America’s 250th celebration. They developed acting skills and stage presence by preparing scenes, learning lines and collaborating on staging and production elements. Orchestra students similarly spent the program refining their musical abilities, practicing ensemble performances and preparing for a final showcase that highlighted their progress.

The program was directed by Mr. Dan Seid, who works year-round with Garden City educators to design curriculum, coordinate staffing and oversee daily operations. Planning begins each December and continues through the summer to ensure a seamless and high-quality experience for participating families. SCOPE also partners with district leadership to offer specialty programs such as Orchestra Boot Camp, providing students with advanced musical instruction, sectional rehearsals and focused performance preparation.

A key component of the program is the involvement of more than 300 Garden City High School student volunteers, who serve as classroom assistants after completing training in child development, classroom support and leadership. These volunteers assist teachers with daily activities, support younger students during projects, and help facilitate classroom routines while gaining valuable service experience and serving as positive role models.

As the program celebrated America’s 250th anniversary, students were reminded of the importance of curiosity, opportunity and learning — values that were reflected throughout a summer of exploration and growth. SCOPE Enrichment would like to thank the Garden City Board of Education for its continued support of the Summer Enrichment Program, which provides families with accessible, high-quality summer learning opportunities.