Over the course of 3 weeks this past July the KCSDB hosted Discovery Invention Camps in 3 locations. There was a camp program at Pope John Paul II School, St. Louis School and École Ste-Marguerite Bourgeoys.
"This year we had 45 camp inventors (students) enrolled in the program," says Tammy Bush, Early Years Lead and Curriculum Coordinator. "Last year we ran 1 camp and because it was so successful and enjoyable for the students we decided to expand the program and add 2 more camps. We also ran the program over 3 weeks instead of 2."
"The focus of the camp is to provide students with hands-on inventor fun while challenging the students with building and invention challenges that spark critical-thinking, creativity and imagination ", says Amanda Derouard, camp teacher at École Ste-Marguerite Bourgeoys. "The students enjoy it so much they can't wait to come back the next day. Students get to take apart recycled materials using tools and safety glasses and reuse them in a different way. The kids find it fascinating to take apart a telephone, CD player or computer and see what's inside. It's interesting and engaging to them in so many ways."
This year there were 3 major building challenges. Each camp had to create a solar-powered oven, a video game prototype and a go-kart. Each Friday the camp would showcase their learning at an Inventor's showcase with family and friends.
"Our Discovery Invention Camps are an amazing way to continue our students' learning into the summer, help increase or maintain literacy skills and do something really different and fun with our students. There is a lot of inventing and tinkering that takes place as well as outside physical activity," says Tammy Bush.
.jpg "Two students are putting the finishing touches on a go-kart made from a skateboard and a laundry basket.")