News - Norfolk Academy

Summer at the Academy is Back, Providing Excitement for Students of all Ages!

Jul 15 2021

With much excitement, Norfolk Academy launched its 2021 Summer at the Academy program on July 5.

This four-week camp allows new and current NA students, grades 1-9, to expel energy and enjoy their summer through multiple unique activities. The camp also presents teachers, coaches, older students, and alumni opportunities to participate as either directors or counselors.

Sisters Jing Jing Zhao ‘25 and Ying Ying Zhao ‘25 are part of the Art Extravaganza camp, run by Lower School Art Teacher Kristen Turrietta. Both sisters said that they enjoy the fun activities Mrs. Turrieta presents to them. During the first week, they used clay to mold sculptures, oil pastels to graffiti with, and made slime out of Elmer’s glue, baking soda, and contact solution.

Their favorite part, however, has been the fact that they are able to choose activities that fit their interests.

“We love the flexibility of the camp,” Jing Jing said.

Shelby Stuart ‘23 is a counselor for the Biking camp, directed by Upper School English Teacher Rich Peccie. Shelby explained how working with students much younger than herself makes her open her eyes and acknowledge what parents go through.

“It's really a learning experience,” Shelby said.

Evan Mitchell, a Spanish teacher in the Middle School, is director of the Learn to Play Basketball and Tennis camp, which is for students entering grades one through four. During the school year, Mr. Mitchell teaches ninth graders and coaches Upper School students as a varsity baseball assistant.

Mr. Mitchell said there are differences working with younger children compared to older students. He said that with Middle Schoolers he is in control - he leads the classroom. But with the younger children, he has mainly stayed behind the scenes, watching as the counselors step up as leaders and mentors for the campers.

“Younger kids are more energetic,” Mr. Mitchell said. “I mainly overview everything while the counselors take charge.”

Everyone agreed: Summer at the Academy offers all who participate an unforgettable experience. It provides campers with a chance to take part in an exciting and eventful four weeks and directors and counselors with leadership roles that will produce enriching experiences.

- Article and photographs by Jenny Vazquez-Paramo ‘23, an intern in the Communications and Development offices this summer