COVID-19 SUMMER CAMp Important Update
scroll down for Summer Learning SPREE & General SPREE FAQ
The past few months have been challenging for all of us at TGF and, in particular, our various SPREE programs and initiatives. We have spent countless hours reviewing budgets, discussing scenarios, and trying to determine the best decisions for “all things SPREE”, considering the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We had been optimistic that SPREE’s award-winning Summer Camps would be able to take place as planned. However, recently released regulations that further limit the engagement and usage of our City’s park system will not allow our SPREE Summer Camps to take place in 2020.
Please know that we are deeply saddened to have to cancel an entire summer of SPREE Summer Camps. We are fully aware of the significant inconvenience and disappointment this news has likely caused. Please understand our heartache at TGF.
If you were registered for any weeks of SPREE Camp this summer, you have been sent an email with further information on refunds and credits for future camps.
We are currently working on an alternative 5 Week “camp program” that we are celebrating as “Summer Learning SPREE” (SLS). More information on this program is available on our Summer Learning SPREE page and we hope to stay connected with your children in this way.
Finally – we are all, each and every one of us, saddened by the reality that this is not going to be the summer that any of us hoped for or planned for. That stated, our passion for teaching children and caring for our River is not diminished. In fact, it is increased. We are busy discovering new and exciting ways that we can encourage children to be active outdoors and explore nature even in this new, and prayerfully temporary, reality.
We had been optimistic that SPREE’s award-winning Summer Camps would be able to take place as planned. However, recently released regulations that further limit the engagement and usage of our City’s park system will not allow our SPREE Summer Camps to take place in 2020.
Please know that we are deeply saddened to have to cancel an entire summer of SPREE Summer Camps. We are fully aware of the significant inconvenience and disappointment this news has likely caused. Please understand our heartache at TGF.
If you were registered for any weeks of SPREE Camp this summer, you have been sent an email with further information on refunds and credits for future camps.
We are currently working on an alternative 5 Week “camp program” that we are celebrating as “Summer Learning SPREE” (SLS). More information on this program is available on our Summer Learning SPREE page and we hope to stay connected with your children in this way.
Finally – we are all, each and every one of us, saddened by the reality that this is not going to be the summer that any of us hoped for or planned for. That stated, our passion for teaching children and caring for our River is not diminished. In fact, it is increased. We are busy discovering new and exciting ways that we can encourage children to be active outdoors and explore nature even in this new, and prayerfully temporary, reality.
Summer Learning SPREE FAQ
When will registration open?
How do I register?
Registration will take place on CampDoc.com. If you do not have a CampDoc account, it is easy to create one! Existing CampDoc credits can be used to register for the Summer Learning SPREE program.
How much does it cost?
Cost for Summer Learning SPREE is $250. This will give you access to all 5 weeks of material but the program can be done at your own pace.
How will my family receive the missions & activities?
SPREE will be using the learning platform, SeeSaw as it is a popular platform for virtual learning for Denver Public Schools. Each child will need an email address to set up their SeeSaw account, and will be given a class code from SPREE to access SLS material. You will need a computer/tablet and internet connection to receive the missions, but most of our activities will have campers leaving their screen and heading outside. Some everyday household items (like toilet paper tubes, recyclables, tape, markers, etc.) will be helpful for different Mission Tasks.
What if I register after Week 1 has begun?
No problem! Your child will still be able to access all missions and recorded videos from previous weeks, and be able to participate in the full program at their own pace. While some aspects of our program are “live video” components, we will make all attempts to make the live videos available after recording time so your child can watch it when they have time.
Who is Chompers?
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Chompers is the SPREE mascot! An amazing beaver, river ambassador, and Chief SPREE Force Special Agent who is working to protect the South Platte River and Denver's urban nature and waterways.
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What is SPREE force?
In September of 2008, Chompers the Beaver founded the SPREE Force to help keep the South Platte River clean from drain to stream, and this ragtag crew has been completing missions to help our River ever since. Trusty members include Crusher the Crawdad, Roxy Raccoon, and Drip Drop.
Can I sign up my child for multiple grade levels?
Yes, but they are written with grade level standards in mind so we suggest not going beyond the grade your child just finished or is about to enter
What physical materials will we need?
Children will need a computer/tablet and internet connection to receive the missions, but most of our activities will have campers leaving their screen and heading outside. Some everyday household items (like toilet paper tubes, markers, etc.) will be helpful for different Mission tasks.
Do I have to complete all 5 weeks?
We encourage your camper to engage in all 5-weeks of missions, but understand that the summer is busy! The missions build on each other week-to-week but your child will receive all curriculum and can complete things at their own pace. While some aspects of our program are “live video” components, we will make all attempts to make the live videos available after recording time so your child can watch it when they have time. Purchasing 1 camp program, will give you access to all 5 weeks of material.
Do I have to live in Denver?
Nope! Summer Learning SPREE can be completed anywhere.
Camp Documents
Below are links to our camp documents. Every camper is required to have complete camper profile prior to attending SPREE camp. Registration and Camper Profiles can be completed on the registration website. Registration is not yet available, but we're working on getting it up and running ASAP!
Parents are required to read the policies and procedures document (parent handbook) to become familiar with our policies and procedures. You will be asked to sign a document stating that you have read and understand these policies and that you and your camper(s) will abide by them.
Parents are required to read the policies and procedures document (parent handbook) to become familiar with our policies and procedures. You will be asked to sign a document stating that you have read and understand these policies and that you and your camper(s) will abide by them.
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Daily Packing List
-Labeled bottle of sunscreen (Campers will be outside for a majority of the day! Please arrive wearing sunscreen when possible.) -Labeled water bottle -Labeled sack lunch -2 snacks (Especially if your camper is staying all day. SPREE does not provide any food) -Extra pair of shoes that can go in the water (no flip flops) -Wear clothes that can get dirty -Clothes and accessories for inclement weather, as needed (sun hat, rain coat, rain boots) -Extra change of clothes -Small towel -Copy of insurance card (if not provided already) -Copy of camper’s immunization record (if not provided already) Do not bring other personal items such as toys, stuffed animals, and card games. |
Summer Camp FREquently Asked Questions
When does 2021 Summer Camp registration open?
When is registration for 2021 for Leaders in Training?
I'm having trouble with registration!
How much does camp cost?
2019-2020 school year Holiday Camps
2020 Spring Break Holiday Camps
2021 Summer Camp:
Where are the locations?
SPREE Headquarters at Johnson Habitat Park, 610 S Jason St, Denver 80223
Cherry Creek Train, near 15th and Delgany in downtown Denver
What are your student/teacher ratios?
SPREE HQ- 36 campers; 9 educators
Cherry Creek Train- 33 campers; 9 educators
Can I pick up/drop off my camper early or late?
-Regular drop-off time for Summer Camp is from 8:30-9:00am. Campers can be dropped off later than 9:00 with the understanding that camp activities will have started and campers may not be in the usual drop off spot. Drop off prior to 8:30 is not permitted.
-Normal pick up times are from 3:00-4:00 (aftercare will be available for purchase from 4:00-5:30). Campers can be picked up prior to 3:00 with the understanding that camp activities will be underway and campers may not be in the usual pick up location.
-Children are supervised at camp until 5:30 p.m. If the staff is not contacted and your child is still present at 5:35 PM, we will contact other individuals authorized to pick up and emergency contacts. In the event that no one can be reached by 6:00 p.m., Social Services will be contacted and the children will be taken to the police. Please call if you anticipate being late (after 5:35 p.m.). A fine of $5.00 per minute will be enforced. This fee will be added to the child's Campdoc.com account and must be paid before the child will be permitted back to camp. Repeated violation of this policy may result in the child's dismissal from the program.
-Call the camp phone number (720-306-8000) for unexpected changes in drop off or pick up.
-Email (camp@greenwayfoundation.org) for planned late drop offs/early pick ups.
How does aftercare work?
Summer Camp hours are 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Aftercare can be purchased at the time of camp registration for care during the hours of 4:00-5:30. The cost of aftercare is $40/child/week. This cost can not be pro-rated based on number of days aftercare is utilized. Prior registration is required: drop-in care is not permitted.
What other programs can my family participate in?
SPREE and The Greenway Foundation hosts many programs and events.
Excursions are school year field trips for students in ECE-5th grade.
Holiday Camps are single day camps during the school year when DPS schools are out of session.
There are many free family events happening throughout the year such as Spring and Fall Stewardship Days, Art on the River, RiverFest, Pioneering on the Platte, and Family Fishing Day
What kind of training do the educators have?
SPREE takes pride in hiring a very passionate and qualified staff. All educators are first aid and CPR certified and have received extensive training in environmental education. Senior staff are trained and certified in medication administration. Many staff SPREE employs are certified environmental educators and/or certified teachers.
What is SPREE's water safety policy?
All campers must be accompanied by an adult when going to the water or near the water. SPREE staff will always monitor campers in the water with a maximum child/adult ratio of 10:1 (is usually 5:1). Campers are only allowed to go in the water up to their mid calf (about 6 inches deep). Any water activities will be cancelled if the waterway is running too high or too fast. SPREE has an excellent history of keeping students safe near the water on all of our field trips and we want to continue the tradition of safety. Please help us ensure your camper’s safety by emphasizing the need to listen to all staff.
Can I bring a treat for a birthday or special occasion?
Yes, please contact your camp leader (camp@greenwayfoundation.org) prior to the week of camp to determine the number of campers at camp that week. Parents/Guardians must include an ingredient list of all ingredients so campers with allergies can plan accordingly. When possible, bring an alternate treat so all campers can be included.
Can I visit camp?
Visitors are permitted at camp as long as they are included on a camper's registration form. Visitors will be asked to show ID and sign in upon arrival.
What does a typical day look like at summer camp?
8:30-9:00: open drop off time, free play for campers
9:00-3:00: structured large and small group educational activities, snacks, lunch, free times, story time
3:00-5:30: open pick up time, free play for campers, games and activities, waterway exploration (care from 4:00-5:30 pm require an added aftercare fee)
How are the campers grouped?
During structured educational activities, campers are often grouped by grade level/age to ensure quality of education. During free times, meal times, and group times, campers will all be instructed together in one large group and/or free to work and play in smaller groups of their choosing.
Are you having summer camp at Joe Shoemaker School in 2020?
No, we are focusing on our two central Denver locations.
- Check back in Winter for updated Summer Camp 2021 information
When is registration for 2021 for Leaders in Training?
- Check back in Winter for updated LIT 2021 program information. Subscribe to our email to be notified first when applications open!
I'm having trouble with registration!
- Registration link
- We started using a new registration system, Campdoc.com in 2018. If this is your first time using Campdoc when signing up for SPREE camps, you will need to make a new account- accounts with our previous registration system(s) will not work.
- You will need to use an updated browser to access Campdoc.com (Chrome, firefox, safari, or microsoft edge)
- If you have an issue on the payment page, try to hit "enter" when in the billing address box. This will allow the rest of the address fields to appear, and you will be able to proceed with your payment.
- If you have other problems registering, the best way to contact the Camp Coordinator is via email (emily@greenwayfoundation.org). Emails are generally responded to within a couple of hours during 9am- 5pm Monday-Friday.
How much does camp cost?
2019-2020 school year Holiday Camps
- Campers: $55/child/day (8:00-4:30)
- Leaders in Training: $40/day/child
- Aftercare is $7/day/child (4:30-6:00)
2020 Spring Break Holiday Camps
- Campers: $275/camper/week ($55/child/day for 4/6/2020) (8:30-4:00)
- Leaders in Training: $200/child/week ($40/child/day for 4/6/2020)
- Aftercare: $40/child/week (4:00-5:30 pm)
2021 Summer Camp:
- Information to come
- Scholarships are available for both Holiday and Summer Camps. Contact camp@greenwayfoundation.org for more information.
Where are the locations?
SPREE Headquarters at Johnson Habitat Park, 610 S Jason St, Denver 80223
Cherry Creek Train, near 15th and Delgany in downtown Denver
What are your student/teacher ratios?
SPREE HQ- 36 campers; 9 educators
Cherry Creek Train- 33 campers; 9 educators
Can I pick up/drop off my camper early or late?
-Regular drop-off time for Summer Camp is from 8:30-9:00am. Campers can be dropped off later than 9:00 with the understanding that camp activities will have started and campers may not be in the usual drop off spot. Drop off prior to 8:30 is not permitted.
-Normal pick up times are from 3:00-4:00 (aftercare will be available for purchase from 4:00-5:30). Campers can be picked up prior to 3:00 with the understanding that camp activities will be underway and campers may not be in the usual pick up location.
-Children are supervised at camp until 5:30 p.m. If the staff is not contacted and your child is still present at 5:35 PM, we will contact other individuals authorized to pick up and emergency contacts. In the event that no one can be reached by 6:00 p.m., Social Services will be contacted and the children will be taken to the police. Please call if you anticipate being late (after 5:35 p.m.). A fine of $5.00 per minute will be enforced. This fee will be added to the child's Campdoc.com account and must be paid before the child will be permitted back to camp. Repeated violation of this policy may result in the child's dismissal from the program.
-Call the camp phone number (720-306-8000) for unexpected changes in drop off or pick up.
-Email (camp@greenwayfoundation.org) for planned late drop offs/early pick ups.
How does aftercare work?
Summer Camp hours are 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Aftercare can be purchased at the time of camp registration for care during the hours of 4:00-5:30. The cost of aftercare is $40/child/week. This cost can not be pro-rated based on number of days aftercare is utilized. Prior registration is required: drop-in care is not permitted.
What other programs can my family participate in?
SPREE and The Greenway Foundation hosts many programs and events.
Excursions are school year field trips for students in ECE-5th grade.
Holiday Camps are single day camps during the school year when DPS schools are out of session.
There are many free family events happening throughout the year such as Spring and Fall Stewardship Days, Art on the River, RiverFest, Pioneering on the Platte, and Family Fishing Day
What kind of training do the educators have?
SPREE takes pride in hiring a very passionate and qualified staff. All educators are first aid and CPR certified and have received extensive training in environmental education. Senior staff are trained and certified in medication administration. Many staff SPREE employs are certified environmental educators and/or certified teachers.
What is SPREE's water safety policy?
All campers must be accompanied by an adult when going to the water or near the water. SPREE staff will always monitor campers in the water with a maximum child/adult ratio of 10:1 (is usually 5:1). Campers are only allowed to go in the water up to their mid calf (about 6 inches deep). Any water activities will be cancelled if the waterway is running too high or too fast. SPREE has an excellent history of keeping students safe near the water on all of our field trips and we want to continue the tradition of safety. Please help us ensure your camper’s safety by emphasizing the need to listen to all staff.
Can I bring a treat for a birthday or special occasion?
Yes, please contact your camp leader (camp@greenwayfoundation.org) prior to the week of camp to determine the number of campers at camp that week. Parents/Guardians must include an ingredient list of all ingredients so campers with allergies can plan accordingly. When possible, bring an alternate treat so all campers can be included.
Can I visit camp?
Visitors are permitted at camp as long as they are included on a camper's registration form. Visitors will be asked to show ID and sign in upon arrival.
What does a typical day look like at summer camp?
8:30-9:00: open drop off time, free play for campers
9:00-3:00: structured large and small group educational activities, snacks, lunch, free times, story time
3:00-5:30: open pick up time, free play for campers, games and activities, waterway exploration (care from 4:00-5:30 pm require an added aftercare fee)
How are the campers grouped?
During structured educational activities, campers are often grouped by grade level/age to ensure quality of education. During free times, meal times, and group times, campers will all be instructed together in one large group and/or free to work and play in smaller groups of their choosing.
Are you having summer camp at Joe Shoemaker School in 2020?
No, we are focusing on our two central Denver locations.
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Who is Chompers?
Chompers is the SPREE mascot! An amazing beaver, river ambassador, and SPREE force Special Agent who is working to protect the South Platte River and Denver's urban nature and waterways. |
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Has this camp won any awards?
Yes! SPREE has won the award for Excellence in Environmental Education from the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education (CAEE). Adventures Outside is also a Bronze Achiever in the Colorado Environmental Leadership Program. |
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