The buzz of excitement is in the air as we gear up for another incredible camp season at Sci-Tech. But before the campers arrive, there’s a special tradition that kicks everything off! While we typically call it “Staff Training” or “Staff Orientation” in many ways it’s like a camp session for staff, so we can call it a “Staff Session”. It’s not only a time for training and preparation, but also an opportunity to build connections, share laughs, learn together, and discover connections across diverse backgrounds.
This year’s Staff Session was the culmination of months of planning and Zoom meetings. Everyone was excited to finally meet in person back in Byfield. The two-week program is packed not only with safety trainings and program review, but experts are brought in to run workshops that focus on social/emotional learning and needs that are unique to campers of different ages. Whether it was a staff member’s first summer in Byfield or their tenth, each moment gives staff, faculty and leadership the tools they need to make this summer another incredible camper experience at Sci-Tech.
Let’s dive into the highlights and hear some reflections.
Kicking It Off
Staff Session at Sci-Tech isn’t your average staff orientation. Sure, there are learning sessions, safety trainings, and activity-specific workshops, but at its core, there’s an energy here that sets the tone for the summer ahead.
“Sci-Tech is the place where all different people can truly be themselves. Every summer I come from Scotland to camp and join other staff members from not just America and New England, but all over the world, including Israel, Columbia, Poland, and more. Many come back to camp year after year like me”, shared Sean Crancher, who is one of our two Assistant Directors. “So many of the camp staff were campers here first. It’s inspiring to see both the old and new staff learning and working together while living the Sci-Tech values.”
The training sessions emphasized everything from fostering inclusivity in our camp culture to mastering skills to support campers who will participate in our range of signature Sci-Tech activities, like coding, robotics, and digital film production. But what sets the training apart is its hands-on and collaborative nature. Facilitators didn’t just lecture—they invite participation, ensuring every voice is heard.
Starting the Day Right
Every morning at Sci-Tech is celebrated with an event called Boker Big Bang, and that includes the Staff Session.
Leo Waldbaum, a long-time camper and first-time staff member, lit up as he recounted his favorite part. “Every day at Sci-Tech starts off not only with traditional Jewish prayers, but also with a big, fun science experiment. Watching science come alive, we are like kids at camp ourselves—excited, curious, and full of ideas. Watching people bond over their love for science? That’s peak Sci-Tech energy.”
Shabbat For All of Us
As the Staff Session progressed, anticipation built for one of our favorite times of the week, Shabbat. Picture it—everyone gathering in a circle to welcome shabbat with song and meditation, then walking together to services, followed by a special dinner that includes matzah ball soup and brisket, while ending in s’mores and Israeli dancing.
“It was incredible,” said Juan Camilo Salono, the 8th and 9th Grade Unit Head. “I love having time to connect at the end of the week and come together.”
Personal Reflections
One of the most striking takeaways from the Staff Session is how Sci-Tech truly feels like a place where everyone’s individuality is valued. It’s a community built on shared purpose, mutual respect, and an appreciation for the unique spark that each person brings.
Devon Barker, a longtime camp staff leader and consultant, shared his thoughts. “You realize pretty quickly that Sci-Tech is so much more than a summer camp. It’s a place where everyone’s individuality is celebrated, and the Staff Session really drives that home. The staff is so excited to give their campers an amazing experience.”
Devon’s words ring true for all the staff at Sci-Tech. Whether it’s during a high-energy Day-in-the-Life workshop or a quiet conversation at dinner, the relationships formed here set the foundation for an unforgettable summer experience—for staff and campers alike.
Bring on the Campers!
As we close the chapter on this year’s Staff Session and prepare to welcome the campers, there’s a collective excitement. The experiences shared and bonds formed during this important session will carry throughout the summer, shaping sessions full of exploration, learning, and growth.
“I’m ready for the campers to arrive,” said Adam Smolinsky, our Biology Instructor this year. “Every moment here feels like a spark, and I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds when we’re sharing it with the next generation of innovators.”
That spark—the one ignited by creativity and fueled by diversity—has always been at the heart of Sci-Tech. It’s what makes this community not only thrive but also shine. This summer, we’re ready to take that spark and amplify it, creating experiences that go beyond expectations and leave lasting impressions on everyone involved.
So, whether you’re a staff member, camper, or just someone following our journey, brace yourself for a season of inspiration, connection, and discovery. At Sci-Tech, we don’t just imagine the world as it could be—we create the space for it to come alive.
Let the summer begin—a fusion point of innovation, diversity, and transformative experiences awaits!