In a typical week, more than 1,000 students are roaming the classrooms, fields and playgrounds at the Massapequa School District’s six elementary schools. It’s another successful summer for the popular Summer Recreation Program, which is running from July 1 to Aug. 1.
Those students are joined by hundreds of high school and college-age counselors, as well as the building directors. The program creates connections among participants of all ages throughout the first half of summer vacation.
“I enjoy being a counselor because it helps me make better relationships with the kids,” said Colin D., a Massapequa High School junior who is working for the third summer at East Lake Elementary School, which he once attended. “I want the kids to know you can always trust your counselors and if they ever need someone to talk to, we are here for them.”
Colin, who remembers looking up to his counselors when he was in the summer recreation program as a child, takes his responsibility seriously to ensure that students in his group are having fun, making new friends and staying safe. He and his fellow high school leaders know the key to a successful summer is setting a positive example, always bringing a smile and working hard to relate to the younger children.
Junior Kayla D., who works with a group of girls entering kindergarten and first grade, loves getting to know the children and seeing their different personalities.
“All of them are different and fun to hang out with,” she said, adding that this gives her experience if she decides to pursue a child-centered career.
During a typical day at summer recreation, the groups rotate through different stations including the art room, game room, snack, playground, indoor sports and outdoor sports. Each school hosts several special events throughout the summer. Students make ceramics, decorate hats, stuff bears and tie dye T-shirts. There are performances from Alex the Magician, Mad Science and My Reptile Guys. They get treats on ice cream, pizza, pretzel and smoothie days. Each school also hosts a block party or carnival day with a dunk tank, face painting and games created by the counselors.
Campers can also sign up for any of the field trips that take place throughout the summer such as bowling, Dave and Busters, Long Island Children’s Museum, miniature golf and the movies.
The elementary program is open to students entering kindergarten through fifth grade. Students going into ninth grade can serve as volunteers while 10th-12th graders can work as high school leaders. After graduating, they can work as college assistants and are all CPR and AED certified. The building directors are certified teachers.
“Those who are interested in working for summer recreation go through a rigorous hiring process,” summer recreation Coordinator Dani Shehada said, noting that applicants must get letters of recommendation from teachers and commit to all five weeks of the program. “Summer recreation staff create a wide-range of events that cater to different interests, ensuring that every child can find something they enjoy. The counselors are responsible for guiding and mentoring campers. This role fosters a sense of responsibility and enhances teamwork abilities, essential traits for future academic and career endeavors. Additionally, counselors often form lasting friendships with both peers and campers, creating a supportive community that can be invaluable.”