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Counselor in Training Program
About the Program
Cultivate’s Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program provides high school juniors and seniors with an immersive leadership experience within the framework of our summer art camps. Focused on developing communication, leadership, and mentorship skills, the program encourages teens to take on meaningful roles assisting instructors and guiding younger campers through creative activities. Designed to foster both artistic and personal growth, the CIT program offers participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment while deepening their own understanding of art education. This unique program blends leadership development with creative exploration, positioning teens to cultivate a strong foundation for future opportunities in education, the arts, or leadership roles.
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What to Expect In Our Program -
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Leadership Experience: CITs will assist teachers in running summer art camps, working alongside instructors to help guide younger students through activities, gaining practical leadership experience in a creative setting.
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Hands-On Learning: Participants will learn valuable skills such as classroom management, engaging with children, and helping to create a positive camp experience, all while contributing to a fun and educational environment.
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Creative Development: By supporting elementary-level camps, CITs will further develop their own creative skills and learn new artistic techniques, fostering growth in both leadership and art.
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Earn Teen Camp Participation: For every elementary camp they assist, CITs earn a free spot in a teen camp, ensuring their own artistic growth and participation in advanced workshops.
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Recommendation Opportunities: CITs can request letters of recommendation to support college applications or future job opportunities, making the program not only a learning experience but a valuable addition to their academic and professional journey.
A Day in the Life of a CIT
CITs begin their day by arriving at 8:30 AM to meet with the teacher and staff for a brief orientation. During this time, they’ll review the day’s schedule, assist in setting up materials, and prepare for the arrival of the elementary campers.
From 9 AM to 12 PM, CITs play an active role in supporting both the students and the teachers. They help guide small groups of campers through various art activities, offering hands-on support, answering questions, and encouraging creativity.
CITs also assist teachers with tasks like organizing materials, prepping for upcoming projects, and ensuring the smooth flow of the morning session. Their involvement offers an opportunity to develop leadership skills while gaining insights into classroom management, teamwork, and lesson execution.
By noon, after helping with clean-up and ensuring everything is set for the next day, CITs complete their morning responsibilities and are dismissed. The program allows them to build skills in a structured yet engaging environment, gaining valuable experience that benefits their future endeavors in education, art, and leadership.
Fast Facts about the Program
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Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors.
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Program Length: Runs during the summer, with weekly commitments available.
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Camp Locations: Elementary camps take place at Cultivate (morning and afternoon sessions) and KCAD (morning only); Teen camps are at KCAD in the afternoon.
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CIT Hours: CITs assist during the morning elementary camps from 9 AM - 12 PM, arriving by 8:30 AM for daily orientation with teachers and staff.
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Free Teen Camp: For each week a CIT supports an elementary camp, they receive a free afternoon teen camp at KCAD.
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Daily Responsibilities: Assist with classroom setup, distribute materials, provide one-on-one student support, and help manage activities.
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Commitment: CITs are expected to work the entire week they sign up for, ensuring consistency for students and teachers.
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Training and Mentorship: CITs will receive guidance and training from experienced teachers to build leadership and communication skills.
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Teamwork: Work closely with teachers, staff, and fellow CITs, helping to create a fun and organized camp environment.
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Dress Code: Comfortable, art-friendly clothing is recommended, as CITs will assist with hands-on activities and art projects.
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Camps Offered: Wide range of art-based activities in drawing, painting, sculpture, and more for elementary students.
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Lunch Break: CITs have a break after the morning camp ends if they're staying for the teen camp in the afternoon.
Cultivate Conversations:
Art and Education Discourse
Read the Cultivate Arts Publication
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