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Wildcat Academy

Summer at the Lakes 2025 Logo

Wildcat Academy and Leaders in Training

WILDCAT ACADEMY
Half or Full Day Camps for rising 5th-8th graders 

How Wildcat Academy Works:
Wildcat Academy is a full or half day camp. Campers choose between A.M. and P.M options to design either a half-day or full-day camp. Students can also stay active with sports and games, express their creativity through digital art, multimedia, and theater, and deepen their knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). There’s something for every interest and passion! 

WILDCAT LEADERS IN TRAINING
Full Day Camp for rising 6th – 8th graders 

How Leaders in Training Works:
Leaders in Training (LIT) is a full-day camp designed for aspiring leaders in training. This program connects closely with Camp Wildcat for grades K-5, offering young individuals the chance to build skills for future roles as camp counselors, recreation leaders, or babysitters. Participants will build leadership skills, sensitivity to children, and programmatic skills through collaborative projects, daily presentations to the camp community, and hands-on experience as Junior Counselors, mentoring younger campers of all ages. The program also includes CPR/first-aid training opportunities, inspiring guest speakers, and meaningful community service projects.

Wildcat Academy Offerings

Unless otherwise noted, these camps are for rising Grade 5 – Grade 8.

The following camps are listed in alphabetical order. Please refer to the “At a Glance” document for the weekly breakdown and pricing.

3D Design, Modeling and Printing

Week 8
Half Day/AM

Turn imagination into reality in this interactive camp on 3D design and printing! Students will learn how to create their own digital 3D models, bring them to life with a 3D printer, and understand the basics of additive manufacturing. Whether designing keychains, custom figurines, or simple engineering models, this camp is perfect for students who love creativity and technology.

Art-venture

Week 3
Half-Day/AM

Come join a weeklong camp where students can explore their creative potential! This program will provide a stimulating environment for young artists to grow as creative, unique individuals who learn how to solve problems visually. Campers will work on a variety of fun projects and participate in the joys of making art with friends, experimenting with painting, drawing, mixed-media, sculpture, and more!

Astronomy: Stargazing and Telescopes

Week 6
Half Day/AM

Embark on a journey through the cosmos as we learn about stars, planets, and galaxies! Students will explore the mysteries of the night sky, understand how telescopes work, and even get hands-on experience using one. From identifying constellations to learning about black holes and exoplanets, this course is perfect for young astronomers ready to reach for the stars!

Basketball Camp

Week 5
Half Day/AM

Experienced coaching, engaging drills, and fun competitive games will help to take your game to the next level.  Enhance your teamwork and sportsmanship abilities, improve your physical conditioning, and grow your overall understanding of the great game of basketball!

Camp Fiesta

Week 1
Half Day/PM

¡Viva la fiesta! This camp invites campers to explore and celebrate diverse Latin cultures through dance, games, and crafts. Along the way, they’ll enjoy learning foundational Spanish vocabulary and phrases. Camp Fiesta offers a fun and dynamic introduction to the world of Español!

Canine Crew

Week 5
Half Day/PM

Is your child a dog lover? Are they excited to spend their summer learning about and interacting with furry friends? Then Canine Crew Adventure is the perfect camp for them! This unique camp is designed for kids who are passionate about dogs and want to explore the world of canine care, training, and fun activities—whether they have their own dog or just want to learn more! They’ll learn how to properly care for dogs, understand dog behavior, and even practice basic training techniques. Each day features exciting activities that will keep campers engaged, active, and having fun, including agility courses, obedience drills, and dog-related games. In addition to learning about dog care and training, Canine Crew Adventure emphasizes kindness, responsibility, and respect for animals, teaching campers how to be responsible pet owners and advocates for animals.

theCoderSchool: App Development 101

Week 3
Half Day/PM

Join our coding camp and master HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and modern frameworks. Create a dynamic web application for your favorite sport or hobby. Perfect for newbies and young coders.

You’ll learn to:

  • Master Web Development Fundamentals: HTML/CSS, JavaScript basics
  • Explore Modern Frameworks: Build robust and scalable web apps
  • Build a Personal Project: Create a dynamic web app for your favorite sport/hobby

theCoderSchool: Artificial Intelligence Coding 101

Week 2
Half Day/PM

Imagine a world where computers can tell cats from dogs, transform horses into zebras, and outsmart chess champions. Welcome to our Python AI camp! Using Python and TensorFlow, you’ll create machine learning models that mimic human brain function. Bring your wildest ideas to life and make the impossible possible.

You’ll learn to:

  • Build machine learning models with Python and TensorFlow
  • Create AI-powered projects, such as image recognition and transformation
  • Develop problem-solving skills with real-world AI applications

theCoderSchool: Game Design with Unity

Week 4
Half Day/PM

Transform from player to creator with Unity, the industry-standard game engine. Bring art, code, and design together to craft immersive experiences. Design thrilling levels, from platformers to Battle Royale arenas inspired by Fortnite and Apex Legends. Use Unity’s visual coding to add rules, structure, and interactivity. Join a community of millions and unlock the power to create incredible games that captivate and inspire.

You’ll learn to:

  • Design and build 3D game levels with Unity
  • Create interactive gameplay mechanics with visual coding
  • Develop immersive experiences inspired by popular games

theCoderSchool: Python 101

Week 1
Half Day/PM

Embark on a coding adventure with Python, a top in-demand language! Develop essential programming skills through logic games, foundational algorithms, and designing your own arcade-style game. Boost computational thinking, creativity, and STEM confidence. Kickstart your coding journey and unlock limitless possibilities!

You’ll learn to:

  • Develop essential programming skills with Python fundamentals
  • Master logic and problem-solving through games and algorithms
  • Design and build your own arcade-style game project

theCoderSchool: Roblox Developer-Imaginative Game Design

Week 7
Half Day/PM

Join the Roblox revolution! Create 3D games from scratch, designing landscapes, obstacles, and challenges. Bring your story to life with custom mechanics like collectibles and melee weapons using Lua scripts. Share your published game with friends across platforms and monetize in-game products to earn Robux. As a Roblox developer, you’ll gain experience and skills to tackle advanced game design challenges.

You’ll learn to:

  • Create and publish games to the Roblox website
  • Practice game design fundamentals and storytelling
  • Build custom terrain and obstacles for a Roblox game
  • Implement game mechanics and custom challenges using Lua scripts
  • Monetize projects with in-game items

theCoderSchool: Roblox Developer-Lua Coding and Game Design

Week 8
Half-Day/PM

Join 100 million+ players on Roblox, where top devs earn $1M+ yearly! Use the built-in editor and Lua programming language to design thrilling levels and code smooth gameplay. Publish, share, and play with friends on console, mobile, or PC. Plus, create and sell scripts to other game designers. Unleash your creativity, build a gaming empire, and level up your coding skills!

You’ll learn to:

  • Learn programming logic and fundamentals with Lua
  • Create and publish games to the Roblox website
  • Practice game design fundamentals and build a Roblox game from scratch
  • Implement game mechanics and custom challenges by writing your own Lua scripts
  • Monetize projects with in-game items

theCoderSchool: Roblox Camp-Launch Your Own Obby Game

Week 5
Half Day/PM

Get your imagination flowing with Roblox Studio, an immersive game engine that can be played on the web, mobile, or even in virtual reality! You’ll learn the fundamentals of game design and build your very own obstacle course, complete with fire-spawning platforms and speed boosts that’ll put your name on top of the leaderboard. And with Roblox’s toolbox and a dash of creativity, you’ll sculpt mountains and design custom art for your avatar to wear in-game.

You’ll learn to:

  • Create and publish games to the Roblox website
  • Explore game design fundamentals and build your own Obby
  • Learn how to create developer products and monetize items
  • Implement checkpoints and custom challenges using built-in Lua scripts

theCoderSchool: VR Game Design with Unity and Meta Quest

Week 6
Half Day/PM

Dive into Unity, a cutting-edge game engine, and unlock your creative potential. Master the fundamentals of game design and build immersive experiences for web, mobile, and Virtual Reality (VR). Create thrilling 3D obstacle courses, complete with dynamic elements, and sculpt custom environments that transport players to majestic landscapes or vibrant cities.

Design unique art and accessories for characters, adding a personal touch to your game. Once complete, publish your masterpiece and share it with a global audience. Compete for leaderboard recognition and see how your game stacks up against millions of players worldwide.

You’ll learn to:

  • Master Unity’s powerful game engine and editor
  • Create stunning 3D environments and levels
  • Develop engaging gameplay mechanics with C#

Creative Home Economics

Week  4
Half-Day/PM

Campers will gain practical skills and  a greater sense of independence through our creative and fun home economics mini lessons.

The week’s lessons will include:

  • Knit Wits: Campers will learn to weave as they create their own keychains and potholders.
  • Health and Hygiene: Campers will learn basic safety and first aid tips & tricks for common household scenarios.
  • Interior Design: Campers will learn design skills as they plan their own dream homes.
  • Money and Meal Prep: Campers will learn about the power of making awesome meals on a budget.
  • Party Hosts: Using the skills learned over the week, campers will plan and enjoy a mini end-of-week party.

Drama Kids-Acting Academy: Broadway Bound

Week 8
Half Day/AM
Join a high-energy, week-long adventure into the world of musical theater. Campers will explore five iconic musicals, diving into their stories, songs, and characters. Through daily workshops, they’ll learn choreography, vocal techniques, and acting skills, bringing each show to life. By the end of the week, campers will perform a small presentation showcasing scenes, songs, and dances from all five musicals. Whether you dream of being on the stage or just love musical theater, Broadway Bound is the perfect way to experience the magic of Broadway in a fun, supportive environment!

Drama Kids-Acting Academy: Improv Master Class

Week 1
Half Day/AM
Unlock the secrets to becoming a master storyteller at Improv Master Class! This immersive experience is designed to enhance your ability to think on your feet, listen actively, and create incredible narratives. This camp will guide you through the art of spontaneous storytelling and worldbuilding. You’ll explore character development and plot creation—all while embracing spontaneity and building confidence in your ability to improvise and adapt. Foster teamwork, boost confidence, and ignite a passion for the exciting world of improvisational theater!

Drama Kids-Acting Academy: Spotlight Eras

Week 4
Half Day/AM
Are you ready for it? Step into a world of excitement and self-expression at The Spotlight Era Camp! Unleash your inner performer through dramatic storytelling, dynamic movement, and confidence-boosting activities. Inspired by themes of individuality, creativity, and passion, you’ll craft original scenes, explore the art of self-expression, and learn to command the stage like a pro. This camp celebrates what makes you unique, helping you shine in every performance. Whether you’re telling a powerful story or delivering a show-stopping moment, you’ll feel the thrill of stepping into the spotlight. It’s your time to dazzle, create, and start your very own Spotlight Era!

Explosive Science: Fun Chemical Reactions!

Week  7 
Half-Day/AM

Get ready for a week of exciting, hands-on chemistry experiments that bubble, fizz, and change colors! Students will create foaming elephant toothpaste, observe the dramatic iodine clock reaction, and explore other mind-blowing chemical transformations. This course is designed to make chemistry fun and safe while sparking curiosity about the science behind everyday reactions.

Fab Lab

Week 2 & 6
Half-Day/AM

Calling all inventors, makers, and designers! This camp is perfect for those eager to bring their creative ideas to life in exciting and hands-on ways. Throughout the week, campers will explore ideation, design, and prototyping, applying their learning through a variety of engaging projects. They’ll have the opportunity to turn their ideas into reality while developing valuable problem-solving and innovation skills!

Flag Football Camp

Weeks 1 & 2
Half-Day/AM

Join us for some Flag Football Fun this summer! Take your game to the next level. Campers of all skill levels will learn offensive and defensive skills and concepts, having ample opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in modified games and scrimmages. This is a great opportunity for any player looking to improve their game, have fun, and build confidence.

Fun with Color, Light and Shadows

Week  5
Half-Day/AM

Ever wonder how colors mix to create new shades or why shadows change size and shape? In this exciting hands-on course, students will explore the science behind colors, light, and shadows through fun experiments and creative activities. From making rainbows with prisms to creating mesmerizing shadow art, this camp will bring out the artist and scientist in every student!

Leaders In Training (LIT) Camp (Grade 6-Grade 8)

Full Day
Weeks 1-8

Designed for aspiring leaders, the Leaders in Training (LIT) program connects closely with Camp Wildcat for grades K-5, offering young individuals the chance to build skills for future roles as camp counselors, recreation leaders, or babysitters. Participants will build leadership skills, sensitivity to children, and programmatic skills through collaborative projects, daily presentations to the camp community, and hands-on experience as Junior Counselors, mentoring younger campers of all ages. The program also includes CPR/first-aid training opportunities, inspiring guest speakers, and meaningful community service projects.

Make it Fly!

Weeks 3, 4, & 5
Full Day

This camp is focused on all things that fly! It is sure to be a week filled with lots of learning, building, fun, and flight! Campers will construct mini-drones and test their skills by navigating a thrilling drone obstacle course. They’ll also assemble, customize, and launch their very own model rockets. Don’t miss this action-packed week of fun and exploration!

Minute to Win It

Week  6
Half-Day/PM

An exciting camp with fast paced games, challenges, and good-natured competitions. Campers will go head-to-head as they compete in quick and fun challenges in the style of “Minute to Win It.” During each task, participants will be required to think on their feet while working by themselves, in pairs, or in groups.

Operation Summer Assignment: ELA *5th and 6th Grade Academy students only*

Week 7
Half Day/PM

Worried about tackling summer assignments? Let us help! At Academy, our expert teachers will guide your child through their summer work, ensuring a productive week filled with progress and learning. It’s the perfect way to keep skills sharp while relieving stress for both students and parents.

Operation Summer Assignment: Math *5th and 6th Grade Academy students only*

Weeks 2 & 8
Half Day/PM

Worried about tackling summer assignments? Let us help! At Academy, our expert teachers will guide your child through their summer work, ensuring a productive week filled with progress and learning. It’s the perfect way to keep skills sharp while relieving stress for both students and parents.

Recycle Art

Week 8
Half Day/PM

Celebrate the earth while unleashing your creativity! Campers will craft both two and three-dimensional artworks through building, sculpting, painting, and repurposing recycled materials. Each participant will design and create their own “recycled art.” Additionally, campers will collaborate on an eco-friendly group project. Don’t forget to bring an oversized paint shirt for the fun!

Soccer Camp

Week 7
Half Day/AM

Engaging drills, skill-building activities, modified games, and scrimmages will help your camper enhance their fundamentals and overall understanding of “the beautiful game.” Let our coaches guide your player to become a stronger dribbler, passer, shooter, and teammate!

Softball (Grade 2 - Grade 8)

Weeks 3 & 4
Half Day/AM

Come join us for a week full of fun and learning!  Campers will learn fundamental softball skills that will include: fielding, throwing, base running and hitting.  Come have a ball and  learn more about the great game of softball.

Video Production

Weeks 1 & 2
Full Day

In this dynamic camp, campers will dive into the world of stop-motion animation and create exciting movie trailers. They’ll also produce an exciting program to showcase their week’s work. From scriptwriting and interviewing to editing, anchoring, and directing, campers will experience every aspect of live show production in our new studio. At the end of the week, each camper will take home a copy of their broadcast—a keepsake of their creative journey!

Trailblazers

Weeks 1-3 & 7
Full Day

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! This camp is perfect for adventurers who love exploring nature and enjoying all the fun it has to offer. Activities including fishing, team building, grilling hot dogs, making s’mores, and more! Campers will learn proper archery techniques to hit the bullseye and master essential survival skills. The week wraps up with an exciting trip to the Academy at the Lakes McManus campus, where campers can put their skills to the test in the great outdoors.