Camp Compass

Camp Compass is a free, summer learning program for underserved elementary students of Springfield Public Schools – District 186. Camp Compass is designed to prevent summer learning loss and improve reading and math skills.

The purpose of Camp Compass:

Our purpose is to provide a high-quality summer experience for children who might not otherwise have somewhere to go. We are committed to closing the achievement and opportunity gaps that exist between low-income students and their higher-income peers.

How do we accomplish this?

We utilize best practices for out-of-school time (OST) programming through a balance of academic and enrichment activities. We focus on the whole child and work to intentionally remove barriers that might otherwise prevent a child from participating in a summer program.

Camp Compass history and growth:

Camp Compass began in 2013, serving 54 children in Springfield. The program has grown every year since then. 2024 was our biggest year ever, serving over 900 children!

Enrichment

Afternoons at Camp Compass are all about discovery, creativity, and interactive learning. Our enrichment activities are designed to spark curiosity and give campers opportunities to explore new interests in fun and meaningful ways.

Each week, campers dive into a variety of engaging experiences that may include:

STEAM projects that encourage problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation
Interactive visits from community partners who bring exciting expertise in everything from wildlife and art to science and mental wellness
Field trips that take learning beyond the classroom and into the world, offering exposure to nature, culture, and local resources

These enrichment experiences help campers uncover hidden talents, build valuable life skills, and create lasting memories. For many of our kids, these moments open doors to possibilities they may have never imagined, and that’s what Camp Compass is all about.

Academic

At Camp Compass, we believe that summer is not only a time for fun, it’s also a crucial opportunity to keep young minds active and engaged. Our academic program is designed to help students maintain and strengthen their core skills in literacy and math, setting them up for a confident return to school in the fall.

Each morning, campers participate in academic sessions led by licensed teachers who bring both expertise and enthusiasm to the classroom. With an emphasis on small class sizes and differentiated instruction, every child receives the personalized support they need to grow at their own pace.

Our academic focus includes:

Literacy instruction to build strong reading, writing, and comprehension skills
Math instruction to reinforce key concepts and promote problem-solving abilities
Interactive learning strategies that make academic content engaging and meaningful
Assessment-informed teaching, allowing staff to meet each child where they are to be able to track their progress

By blending academic learning with a supportive, low-pressure environment, Camp Compass helps prevent summer learning loss and boosts student confidence.

Note: Registration of campers is closed. If you have any questions about volunteering or employment, please contact:
Director of Programs Ryan Reitmeier, ryan@compassforkids.org or contact us.

2025 by the numbers…

2025 Stats:

341 Campers between kindergarten and fifth grade from 17 Springfield Public Schools – District 186 Elementary Schools.
18,207 Hours of academic instruction in math and literacy by certified teachers
2 Sites : Matheny-Withrow | Ridgely
28 Community Partners teaching the kids about art, positive thinking, astronomy, finances, exotic animals, STEM, etc.
9 Field Trips including bowling, rollerskating, swimming, Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, Gymnastics Zone, and Memorial Wellness Center
131 SEL Lessons taught weekly to the kids by incredible camp counselors using the “Leader in Me” social-emotional learning curriculum.
10,205 Meals provided to the kids, including daily breakfast and lunch, and the weekly Backpack Feeding Program for the weekends.
695+ Volunteer Hours generously contributed by 55 generous individuals whose impact reached each and every child.