Camp SMILE
Welcome to Camp SMILE (Summer of Memories, Inspiration, Learning, and Enrichment), a special annual event for rising 5th graders in Fauquier County. Established in 2006 at Camp Moss Hollow in Markham, Virginia, Camp SMILE has been hosted at the Northern Virginia 4-H Educational Center, just outside Front Royal, since 2018.
Each summer, this scenic mountain setting becomes the learning playground for 80 rising 5th graders from Fauquier County Public Schools. Here, students embark on a journey of academic enrichment to prepare them for their final year of elementary school. Our program is led by certified Fauquier County Public School teachers, ensuring high-quality instruction across various subjects.
Academic Enrichment
Students engage in a well-rounded curriculum that includes math, reading, science, and social studies, complemented by our unique "Five Needs" class. This class focuses on building self-esteem and understanding fundamental human needs. With small class sizes and a hands-on approach, students benefit from personalized learning experiences and outdoor activities whenever possible.
Camp Activities
In addition to academic enrichment, students enjoy classic camp activities such as campfires, singing, swimming, hiking, and canoeing. They stay in dorm-style accommodations with peers and are supervised by trained 4-H camp counselors.
Integration of the "5 Cs"
Camp SMILE integrates Fauquier County Public Schools' focus on the "5 Cs": critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, and citizenship. Students enhance their citizenship skills in the “Five Needs” class, which fosters self-awareness and community values. Creativity and collaboration are promoted across all classes through engaging activities and group projects. Additionally, critical thinking and communication are emphasized in science assignments, where students work in small groups to solve problems and share ideas.
Join us at Camp SMILE for a summer filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories!