MPA Summer Camp

MPA Summer Camp is operated by Morgan Park Academy, a prestigious coeducational college preparatory independent day school founded in 1873. The summer camp program offers comprehensive enrichment options for children from Pre-K through 8th grade, providing a warm and nurturing environment designed to build self-confidence and foundational skills for lifelong learning.

The camp is divided into age-appropriate groups with distinct programming. Junior Day Camp serves children in Pre-K through 1st grade, focusing on teacher-guided investigation and independent exploration with age-appropriate academic activities to prepare students for their next academic year. Day Camp programs for grades 2-8 offer extensive choice-based learning, allowing campers to select from diverse offerings to create personalized experiences specific to their talents and interests.

The innovative curriculum includes a wide range of activities across multiple disciplines: Art, Technology, STEAM, Makerspace, Minecraft, 3D Printing, Coding, Robotics, Academic Enrichment, Cooking, Hogwarts-themed activities, Dungeons & Dragons, Sports, Sewing, and Woodworking. This cross-curricular approach ensures hands-on learning with diverse instructional materials and age-appropriate vocabulary development.

The MPA Theater Camp offers a specialized four-week Summer Performing Arts Intensive for students in 2nd through 8th grades. This multidisciplinary program introduces participants to all major aspects of theater production including acting, singing, dancing, technical theater (sound and lighting), backstage and stage management, and professional conduct in theatrical settings.

Each class maintains low camper-to-teacher ratios with experienced professional teachers and counselors, creating a responsive and safe environment. The program operates on the school’s expansive 20-acre campus located in Chicago’s Morgan Park neighborhood, providing ample space for exploration and activities.

Extended care options include Before Care from 7:30-8:30 AM and After Care from 3:00-6:00 PM. The camp runs for three two-week sessions during the summer, with families able to register for individual sessions or receive discounts for enrolling in all three sessions. Sibling discounts are also available. The camp requires families to provide lunch as food service is not included, though water fountains are available throughout campus for refills.

Registration opens annually in January, with a $150 non-refundable deposit required at the time of registration. The facility includes a full-time nurse on staff to ensure camper health and safety throughout the program.