PD Old Forge School

Success Camp was hosted by Old Forge High School. Professional instructors led campers through games, discussions and exercises in Negotiating, Goal Setting, Verbal Self-Defense� and other skills. Students entering grades 7, 8 and 9 attended the half-day sessions between June 15-19.

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Pictured are some of the students who participated: First row: campers Courtney Woolaver, Ryan Voyack and Alyssa Hobbs, Volunteer Richard Maopolski; Second row: campers David Rudalavage, Amber Allegrucci, Joshua Woolaver, Courtney Enderline and Mark Voyack.

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“Role playing was my favorite part,” said one student. However, most students named the negotiating as their favorite activity. Some hoped to use the techniques they learned to make deals with parents and siblings. “It worked!” remarked a girl who used negotiating to strike a deal with her sisters about respecting privacy in her room.

Success Camp is an example of many different parts of the community coming together. Camp was sponsored in part by Old Forge High School Board of Directors, who provided scholarships for some campers. Success Camp is also indebted to the maintenance staff at Old Forge High for its many accommodations. Superintendent Roseanne Brutico and her office staff were helpful in arranging for the camp.

The Camp Director, Diane Smith, would like to thank three high school teachers who volunteered. Mrs. Jennifer Churla’s enthusiasm brought Listening Skills to life. Mrs. Deanna Semyon enchanted students with her comparison of Decision Making types to the many “hats” that we all wear, and then provided caps and decorations as a craft for the children. Mrs. Lea Garcia set up complete place settings for each child in her session on Etiquette. Her gracious charm inspired students to try both the food she served and the manners she demonstrated.

Volunteers from the community included graduate Richard Maopolski, who spoke to the campers about setting and meeting goals, and Rev. Anne Marie Acacio, of SMART Steps Personal Coaching, who encouraged Positive Thinking and Speaking.

Given the unanimous approval rating it received from parents and campers, this may be the beginning of an annual tradition.