Camp Compass

Camp Compass includes STEAM projects, literacy and math instruction, and social-emotional learning lessons using the “Leader in Me” curriculum. Campers take part in interactive visits from community partners, field trips, and enrichment activities such as bowling, rollerskating, swimming, and visits to Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, Gymnastics Zone, and Memorial Wellness Center.

• Ages: 5–11 years old
• Price: Camp Compass is a free, summer learning program

Academic sessions at Camp Compass are led by licensed and certified teachers, who provided 18,207 hours of math and literacy instruction. The program uses assessment-informed teaching, small class sizes, and differentiated instruction. Camp Compass is part of Compass for Kids, a not-for-profit organization that offers after-school and summer programs for underserved children in Springfield Public Schools – District 186, and is a United Way Community Partner. In 2024, Camp Compass served over 900 children, including 341 campers between kindergarten and fifth grade from 17 District 186 elementary schools, with support from 28 community partners and 55 volunteers who contributed more than 695 hours. The program includes 131 weekly social-emotional learning lessons using the “Leader in Me” curriculum and provides 10,205 meals, including daily breakfast and lunch and a weekly Backpack Feeding Program for weekends. Camp Compass began in 2013 and is led by Director of Programs Ryan Reitmeier and Founder and Chief Executive Officer Molly Berendt Grogan, with a mission to provide academic and social-emotional support to empower children and families underserved by the community.

Last updated January 15, 2026.