Developing Leaders: Inside Our New Counselor in Training Program

A New Summer Opportunity for Young Leaders

Bennett’s 2025 Summer Camp saw the inaugural year of the Counselor in Training (CIT) program, where students in rising 5th to 9th grade gained the necessary training expertise and skills to support counselors and campers. An application was required to be considered for this position, and then candidates participated in an interview with staff to determine interest and readiness. We had more than 20 CIT participants this summer!

Fostering Responsibility and Mentorship

CITs participated in comprehensive training prior to the start of camp to gain critical information about expectations, ways to best collaborate with the camp staff, and some basics of child development. CITs were also given the option to receive CPR and Pediatric First Aid certification before the summer started. While always supported by administrators and lead camp counselors, CITs were encouraged to make their voice heard and were provided encouraging, constructive feedback at the end of each week. This forged the way for CITs to experience mentorship with lead camp counselors, and reflect on the challenges and rewards of working with younger students.  

Spotlight on Linus: Slime, Smiles, and Leadership

Amongst our dedicated summer team, one CIT participated in all 7 weeks of camp. Linus, a rising 6th grader, inspired the further development of the CIT program after expressing interest in supporting staff in previous years. Linus says “Helping last summer and then doing SK Buddies and Guardianos [crossing guard] during last school year really helped prepare me to be a CIT.” Working with students as young as 3 years old up to 10 years of age allowed CITs to practice leadership skills suitable for the developmental needs of each group. This summer brought enrichment classes where students could try out skateboarding, get coached on their basketball skills, or learn to sew a plush animal – among other specialized courses.

For Linus, these were a highlight of Bennett’s summer program.“I really liked being an assistant teacher in the slime class. The campers always had a smile on their face knowing they would be bringing the slime they made home. I still have a ton of slime in my house from camp.” This kind of cross-generational learning is a hallmark of Bennett’s Reggio-inspired program both during the school year, and into the summer months.

“CITs were valued as co-collaborators, often leading activities, giving helpful redirection to campers, and bringing their own areas of expertise to their groups,” Summer Camp co-coordinator, Amanda Konkol, recalls. “I watched Linus grow over the course of the 7 weeks to become more comfortable and skilled in instructing campers throughout a range of activities.”

John O’Rourke, also a co-coordinator, echoed Amanda’s sentiments. “Linus was an invaluable part of summer camp! He brought positive energy every day and was celebrated by both campers and counselors.”

Interested in Becoming a CIT Next Summer?

Week after week, CITs bonded with younger students through their play, guidance, and care. Camp traditions like Water Wednesday and our daily Community Gathering Assembly were enriched by each CITs presence and subsequent enthusiasm. To any student interested in becoming a CIT themselves, Linus shares the following advice “Being a CIT requires a lot of dedication. Also, you have to remember so many things, but anyone can do it if they try their best and use a growth mindset.”