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WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (AUGUST 18, 2026) — Year four of Kinder Camp has wrapped up, welcoming 88 incoming kindergarten students and helping them build confidence, friendships and excitement for the school year ahead.

Now in its fourth year, Kinder Camp is a half day summer program hosted by the Williamsport Area School District to help incoming kindergarten students make a smooth transition into school. This year’s camp, held Aug. 10 through 14 at each of the district’s primary schools, featured a weeklong bug theme that brought learning, creativity and plenty of fun to each day.

Each day highlighted a different creature, with activities designed to introduce students to the classroom and building routines while helping them feel comfortable in their new school environment.

Day 1: Bee Amazing
The week buzzed into action with a bee themed day focused on the district’s School-wide Positive Behavior Initiative, Bee Amazing: Be Present, Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe and Be Kind. Students learned what it means to be a good classroom “bee” while exploring their new surroundings.

Day 2: Caterpillars and Butterflies
Students explored the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly while learning about growth and change. The theme also served as a fun reminder that kindergarten will be a new experience filled with opportunities to learn, grow and spread their wings.

Day 3: Snails
Students slowed things down for a snail themed day filled with activities and opportunities to explore at their own pace. The day reinforced that everyone learns and grows in their own way.

Day 4: Spiders

The fourth day brought out the spiders! Students took part in spider themed activities while continuing to practice classroom routines, make new friends and build confidence as future kindergarteners.

Day 5: Friday Fun
The final day was all about fun, giving students the opportunity to pick their favorite activities from the week and celebrate everything they had learned. After a week of buzzing like bees, transforming like butterflies, spinning like spiders and moving like snails, students wrapped up camp ready for what comes next.

Participation has been by invitation only since the program began in 2023. Smaller groups allow staff to provide personalized attention while giving students a warm and welcoming introduction to the WASD community.

“Kinder Camp is one of the most exciting events of our summer,” said Michele Kunkle, director of elementary curriculum. “It’s an opportunity for our youngest learners to feel confident, comfortable and connected before the school year even begins.”

The camp is part of the district’s ongoing investment in early childhood education, helping ensure students begin their academic journey with a strong foundation and a sense of belonging.

After a week filled with bugs, learning, laughter and new friends, Kinder Campers left excited for the first day of school, when they will return to their classrooms and reconnect with the friends they made during their week at camp. These little learners are ready to Bee Amazing!

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