James G. Blaine Elementary School Summer Camp (Test)

James G. Blaine Elementary School Summer Camp offers a comprehensive summer program for children ages 4-12 in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. The camp operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, providing a full day of engaging activities and educational enrichment.

The camp is staffed primarily by Blaine teachers and staff members, ensuring continuity and familiarity for returning students. All camp staff are Chicago Public Schools employees who bring their expertise and dedication to creating a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment. Campers are grouped by grade level, with class sizes of approximately 18 campers per group, with a maximum of 20 students to ensure personalized attention and quality instruction.

The program features themed weeks that rotate throughout the summer, including Dinosaur Adventures, Outer Space and Filmmaking, The Mighty Jungle & Rainforests, and Oceans and Water Games. These engaging themes provide hands-on learning experiences that combine education with fun, keeping children engaged and excited throughout the summer.

As a Fine Arts Magnet Cluster school, Blaine incorporates arts-integrated activities into the summer camp experience. The school also features a Maker’s Space focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) projects, providing unique learning opportunities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Rising 5th and 6th graders have the opportunity to apply to be junior counselors, where they can develop leadership skills by helping run activities like BINGO, assisting teachers with younger groups, and leading all-camp morning activities. This program provides valuable mentorship opportunities and helps older students build confidence and responsibility.

Please note that lunch is not provided by the camp. Families are required to send their child with a packed lunch every day, including a water bottle. The camp maintains a 30-minute lunch period. Parents should be aware that accommodating sibling and friend requests may not always be possible due to the grade-level grouping structure.

Blaine Elementary School is located at the corner of Southport Avenue and Grace Street in the desirable Lakeview neighborhood, making it easily accessible for families in the area. The school’s commitment to providing a top-notch educational experience extends to its summer programming, where students feel competent, safe, supported, and connected.